Thailand has announced a new initiative to boost tourism in the country. According to the latest news reports, the country’s cabinet has approved a cut in taxes on alcoholic drinks and entertainment venues. The approved measures include a cut in wine taxes from 10% to 5% and a total removal of taxes on spirits, which were 10% before. Also, the excise tax on entertainment venues will be reduced from 10% to 5%. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said these tax changes will last until the end of this year.
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This move follows Thailand’s decision to allow entertainment venues to stay open until 4 AM. The longer hours are meant to serve night owls and attract more tourists to the country. As reported earlier, Thailand also offered a visa waiver for travelers from India and Taiwan last year, from November 2023 to May 2024. During this time, tourists can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days. It’s interesting to note that India is the fourth-biggest source of tourism for Thailand, with about 1.2 million arrivals this year, behind Malaysia, China, and South Korea.The latest government data shows that, from January to October 29, 2023, Thailand received a total of 22 million visitors, adding 927.5 billion baht (around $25.67 billion) to the country’s economy.
The visa waiver for Indian and Taiwanese travelers is part of Thailand’s plan to draw more tourists and revive its vital tourism sector.
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