Bangkok : Thailand plans Rs 750 tourist tax for visitors: Here’s what you must know

UNN: Will Thailand’s tourism tax finally be implemented after delays? The country’s new tourism minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has said he is considering restarting the collection of the 300-baht (Rs 750) tourism tax, a proposal that was put on hold by the previous administration led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The minister, who took office on Monday, has pledged to increase tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year.
“I believe the collection of tourism fees benefits the tourism industry since the revenue can be used for the development of infrastructure and attractions, as well as to ensure tourist safety,” Sorawong said.
The tourism fee, approved by the Thai cabinet in 2022, has yet to be enforced due to the lack of official endorsement through the Royal Gazette. Although there were plans to introduce it earlier, those were shelved amid opposition from the private sector.
The tourism ministry has not confirmed whether collection will begin in the final quarter of the year. Sorawong explained that more time is needed to assess the system before moving ahead.
According to Bangkok Post, Thailand’s prominent daily, the fee structure, which has remained unchanged since it was first proposed five years ago, includes:
Air travellers paying 300 baht (around Rs 750) Thailand is not alone in mulling over a tourist tax. Popular cities worldwide, including Edinburgh, Barcelona, Paris, and Venice, all have similar charges. The rates and conditions vary widely depending on the location and the type of accommodation.
In Barcelona, tourists pay both a regional tax and a city surcharge, which can total several euros per night, depending on where they stay.