Thailand has decided to postpone the implementation of a proposed entry fee for international tourists until mid-2026. The move comes amid weaker-than-expected tourist arrivals and broader concerns over the country’s economic outlook, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, as per a report by Euro News.
The entry fee, officially termed the "kha yeap pan din" or “stepping onto Thai soil” fee, was approved in principle by Thailand’s Cabinet in February 2023. Initially scheduled for rollout in 2025, the fee would have required air passengers to pay 300 baht (€7.50), while those entering via land or sea were to be charged 150 baht (€3.75).
As per the Euro News report, Assistant Tourism Minister Chakrapol Tangsutthitham confirmed this week that the plan has been deferred due to current market conditions. “We are delaying implementation until tourism demand rebounds,” he said.
Tourism slows as economic pressures mount
As of early July 2025, Thailand has recorded approximately 17 million tourist arrivals—about 5% lower than the same period in 2024. The slowdown has added to concerns within the tourism sector, which contributes close to 20% of the country’s GDP.
Economists have linked the decline in visitor numbers to several external pressures. These include an economic slowdown in major source markets like China, the strengthening of the Thai baht, and the rising cost of international air travel. In addition, potential tariffs from the United States on Thai exports are expected to further impact the regional economy, limiting outbound travel from affected countries.
Fee designed for insurance, infrastructure
Once implemented, the entry fee is expected to fund travel insurance for tourists and help finance infrastructure upgrades across the country’s tourism sector. Authorities have maintained that the funds will directly support better services and safer experiences for visitors.
Despite its delay, Thailand continues to upgrade tourism systems. A digital entry platform was launched earlier this year to streamline pre-arrival processes, replacing traditional paper-based forms. Officials say this system will enhance data collection and ease border procedures.
Focus remains on core travel appeal
Even with policy delays and global headwinds, Thailand remains confident in the appeal of its tourism offering. The country’s varied attractions, from the highlands of Chiang Mai to the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, have helped it remain among the world’s top destinations, attracting close to 40 million tourists annually in pre-pandemic years.
Bangkok continues to be a major draw, with a mix of street food culture, nightlife, and high-end hospitality. Digital nomads, wellness seekers, and luxury travellers also contribute to the country's diverse tourism base. Recent international exposure, such as Thailand’s appearance in the television series The White Lotus, has added further interest.
As the fee remains shelved for now, Thai authorities appear to be relying on the country's established travel appeal to weather short-term challenges and support a long-term recovery in international tourism.
The entry fee, officially termed the "kha yeap pan din" or “stepping onto Thai soil” fee, was approved in principle by Thailand’s Cabinet in February 2023. Initially scheduled for rollout in 2025, the fee would have required air passengers to pay 300 baht (€7.50), while those entering via land or sea were to be charged 150 baht (€3.75).
As per the Euro News report, Assistant Tourism Minister Chakrapol Tangsutthitham confirmed this week that the plan has been deferred due to current market conditions. “We are delaying implementation until tourism demand rebounds,” he said.
Tourism slows as economic pressures mount
As of early July 2025, Thailand has recorded approximately 17 million tourist arrivals—about 5% lower than the same period in 2024. The slowdown has added to concerns within the tourism sector, which contributes close to 20% of the country’s GDP.
Economists have linked the decline in visitor numbers to several external pressures. These include an economic slowdown in major source markets like China, the strengthening of the Thai baht, and the rising cost of international air travel. In addition, potential tariffs from the United States on Thai exports are expected to further impact the regional economy, limiting outbound travel from affected countries.
Fee designed for insurance, infrastructure
Once implemented, the entry fee is expected to fund travel insurance for tourists and help finance infrastructure upgrades across the country’s tourism sector. Authorities have maintained that the funds will directly support better services and safer experiences for visitors.
Despite its delay, Thailand continues to upgrade tourism systems. A digital entry platform was launched earlier this year to streamline pre-arrival processes, replacing traditional paper-based forms. Officials say this system will enhance data collection and ease border procedures.
Focus remains on core travel appeal
Even with policy delays and global headwinds, Thailand remains confident in the appeal of its tourism offering. The country’s varied attractions, from the highlands of Chiang Mai to the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, have helped it remain among the world’s top destinations, attracting close to 40 million tourists annually in pre-pandemic years.
Bangkok continues to be a major draw, with a mix of street food culture, nightlife, and high-end hospitality. Digital nomads, wellness seekers, and luxury travellers also contribute to the country's diverse tourism base. Recent international exposure, such as Thailand’s appearance in the television series The White Lotus, has added further interest.
As the fee remains shelved for now, Thai authorities appear to be relying on the country's established travel appeal to weather short-term challenges and support a long-term recovery in international tourism.
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