The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is inviting all to join in its unique Chinese New Year (CNY) 2020 celebrations organised in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket to ring in the auspicious ‘Year of the Rat’.
TAT’s annual celebration marks the 45th anniversary of Chinese-Thai relations in 2020. It also marks the 15th year of cultural cooperation between TAT and China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, with 2020 being even more special as it’s the TAT’s 60th anniversary.
Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “Thailand’s Chinese New Year Celebration is one of the most unique events, and biggest, outside of China. It is considered one of the most important festivals in Thailand, that each year attracts a growing number of local and international tourists. This year TAT’s CNY 2020 celebrations are focusing on traditional celebrations that can also blend in with modern activities.
“TAT’s events also graciously receive support from China with cultural performances. In turn TAT will organise a special tour for Chinese performers to experience ‘Amazing Thailand: Open to the New Shades” showcasing community and responsible tourism, so that they can share their experiences with their families and friends back home and hopefully inspire them to also visit Thailand.”
During the CNY 2020 period (24 to 30 January), TAT expects Thailand to welcome 1,016,000 visitors and generate 21.7 billion Baht in revenue, representing a 1.5% and 1.6% increase, respectively when compared to the same CNY 2019 period. During the same time, Chinese arrivals are expected to reach 312,000 visitors and generate 8.4 billion Baht in revenue, both representing an increase of 2%.
According to Mr. Yuthasak said, there are favourable factors driving Chinese and Asian arrivals to Thailand, including the visa-on-arrival fee waiver scheme for Chinese nationals that has been extended until 30 April, 2020.There has also been a 28% year-on-year increase in advanced air travel bookings during the 24 to 30 January peak travel period from Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea. Bookings from neighbouring ASEAN countries are also up 103% with top markets being Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam.
