With the government wanting Thailand to become a high-income nation within 12 years, tourism operators have urged it to incorporate measurable indicators for its tourism strategy, such as job creation, income distribution, and average length of stay.In addition, they said that persistent obstacles commonly found in less developed nations, such as corruption, insufficient infrastructure and education, must be addressed.
"The government still lacks a comprehensive viewpoint and appropriate policies to lift tourism," said Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents.
To escape the "middle-income trap", the government wants to make Thailand a high-income country by 2038 via seven industries, including high-value tourism, in which wellness tourism and revenue growth are key pillars.
However, Mr Adith said there is still no clear definition of "high value", which could refer to spending per day, longer length of stay, or greater income distribution to locals.
"Who creates higher value: a tourist who spends 100,000 baht for three days at a private hospital or someone who spends 50,000 baht while visiting five provinces on a 15-day trip?" he asked.
