Even foreigners who live, work and pay taxes in Thailand pay more than locals when visiting national parks and a number of attractions. The argument: foreigners earn more and have more money. An argument that can be sufficiently refuted, but even official Thailand does not want to move away from this controversial dual price system.
Now the discriminatory system of double prices is to be tightened even further. In order to speed up the recovery of the tourism industry, which has been badly hit by the Covid crisis, tourists are to pay more for the hotel than locals.
“The Ministry of Tourism and Sports wants to urge hotel operators to introduce a two-tier tariff structure, where foreign visitors will be offered similar tariffs as before the pandemic, while locals can continue to take advantage of reduced tariffs”. Government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said Wednesday, as did the «Bangkok Post» reported.
Shot threatens to backfire
“By doing so, we want to maintain our price and service standards for foreign tourists, which affects the perception of the country’s tourism brand,” the government spokeswoman continued. “Prices lowered during Covid-19 will be maintained for Thais to keep domestic tourism momentum.”
Thailand’s tourism sector is on the rocks. After abandoning all corona measures, the Thai government expects around 10 million foreign guests this year. A fraction of the 40 million tourists who came before Covid in 2019.
The accusation that tourists in Thailand are “walking ATMs” is not new. Even in hospitals, foreigners often have to pay more. According to initial reactions from industry insiders, a pricing system that penalizes foreigners is also unlikely to accelerate Thailand’s tourism recovery. The opposite is likely to happen. Namely causing even more trouble among expats and causing tourists to look out for reasonably priced alternatives when planning their travel.
Heated debate ensued
The Thai government’s plans have sparked a heated debate on local internet forums. Comments also flood the “Bangkok Post”. There is talk of a “racist system”. Someone writes: «Well, that was totally predictable. When you’ve lost money, you have to ask for more.” Another comment: “You should make this proposal in a normal civilized country… And then wait for the reactions.”
The comments on the platform frequented by many expats and tourists are no less harsh «Aseannow» out. No understanding is shown for the Thai government plans. Someone scoffs: «And they want to attract more visitors to the kingdom? Pure stroke of genius.»
Another advises the government: “Why don’t they just mind their own business and think about how best to increase tourist numbers. And leave it up to the hotels to decide what to charge.” (kes)