The Thai government previously visioned collecting a 300-baht entry fee from each foreign traveler who visits Thailand early this year. (Photo: NNT)The date for the implementation of this levy has since been pushed backcontinually, with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports now expecting thecollection to begin in early 2023. The matter will soon be deliberated by theCabinet. Meanwhile, the fee collection system is now being prepared.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) withKrungthai Bank to develop a system to collect the entry fee. Krungthai Bankwill link its existing payment platforms to the tourism ministry’s feemanagement system. This will make it speedy as well as safe for businesses andforeign tourists to pay the entry fee.
Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said income generatedfrom the fee will serve to fund tourism development. It will also be used toimprove the Thai tourism industry’s competitiveness and will be drawn on to payfor medical services for tourists.
Phiphat said the fee will be collected at all points of entry. The fee might bepaid for via websites, mobile apps, kiosks, or included in the airfare. The feewill be 300 baht for those arriving by air, with the rates for other entry channelsstill being considered.
The minister expected a study commissioned to determine the appropriate ratesfor other entry channels to be completed at the end of this month. The resultwill be presented at a Cabinet meeting in October. If the Cabinet gives itsendorsement, collection of the fee can begin as soon as early 2023./.
VNA
