Thai Tourism Sector Opposes Proposed Departure Tax
Major tourism associations in Thailand are formally opposing a government proposal to implement a 1,000-baht departure tax for travelers.
According to Khaosod Online, the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) and several key industry bodies, including the Thai Hotels Association and the Tourism Council of Thailand, have formally expressed their opposition to a proposed 1,000-baht departure tax. The Ministry of Finance is currently considering this levy, which would apply to both Thai citizens traveling abroad and international tourists departing from Thailand.
ATTA Secretary-General Adith Chairattananon stated that the timing is inappropriate, noting that international tourism in Thailand is currently experiencing a 3% contraction, with a 15% decline specifically from the ASEAN region. Industry leaders fear that adding this tax could drive tourists toward competing destinations.
This proposal comes at a time when travelers are already facing increased costs. Airports of Thailand (AOT) recently raised the passenger service charge for international departures from 1,120 baht to 2,120 baht. Furthermore, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is preparing to implement a 450-baht entry fee for foreign tourists in the first quarter of 2027.
For travelers and residents, this means the total cost of international travel could rise significantly if the new departure tax is enacted. As of now, the tax remains a proposal under consideration by the Ministry of Finance, and it has not yet been officially implemented or finalized.
