The visa-free policy is expected to lift the Indian market next year. Chanat Katanyu
The decision to give Indians 30-day visa-free entry is expected to drive the market to a new record of 2.7 million visitors next year, supported by more flights from second- and third-tier cities to Thailand, say authorities.Patsee Permvongsenee, executive director of the Asean, South Asia and South Pacific region at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said the outlook for the Indian market remains positive following cabinet approval of visa-free entry for 30 days for Indian visitors.
The allowance starts once the decision is published in the Royal Gazette, but authorities are unsure when that will be.
As of July 18, Thailand has recorded 17.3 million foreign arrivals this year, down more than 3% year-on-year, with 1.3 million Indians placing the nation as the No.3 source market.
Arrivals from India are on track to reach 2.55 million this year. Indian carriers have expanded flights from second- and third-tier cities to Thailand, while airlines that temporarily suspended services because of the Middle East conflict and fuel crisis are preparing to restore capacity, said Mrs Patsee.
