Thailand Launches Campaign to Lure Back Chinese Tourists

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thailand has launched the Hello, Ni Hao campaign to attract back Chinese tourists. After recent security problems due to earthquakes and kidnappings, Thailand has lost its image in its main market.

The campaign started this month and will invite more than 300 Chinese media professionals and influencers to Thailand to showcase the country's attractions through social media and press coverage.

Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said this is one of the efforts to restore confidence and reshape the perception of foreign tourists about the country.

Decline in Tourists, Increase in Revenue

Between January 1 and April 28, Thailand generated tourism revenue of 952 billion baht, experiencing a 4.73 percent increase compared to last year. Although the number of Chinese visitors decreased, Thailand experienced growth in the European and American markets, which led to increased revenue.

However, Sorawong said they need to revitalize Chinese interest, calling the group a priority segment. One of the efforts is to uncover fake news that damages the country's image, such as false claims about organ trafficking in Pattaya, which has tarnished Thailand's security reputation.

“Fast-spreading misinformation in the digital age can harm our image. We must respond quickly and clearly,” said Sarawong, as quoted from Thaiger.

Chinese Tourists Switch to Vietnam

Contrary to Vietnam, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand declined. Many Chinese tourists choose Vietnam over Thailand for several reasons, one is cheaper accommodation, 24-hour food service, and various attractions besides natural tourism. Vietnam attracts twice as many tourists as Thailand.

In March, nearly 700,000 Chinese tourists visited Vietnam, while only 300,000 visited Thailand. Japan, facing economic challenges, also focuses on attracting more Chinese tourists.

In addition, Russian visitors to Thailand are dwindling as well. Apart from preferring Vietnam, many of them choose Egypt. Flights from Thailand to Vietnam also indicate a concerning trend for tourism in the Land of the White Elephant.

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