Thailand hosts over 17.5 million foreign tourists in H1

Thailand accommodated over 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first half of 2024, who brought the Southeast Asian country a revenue of over THB825 billion (about $22.6 billion), according to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

Five countries with highest number of tourists to Thailand in the reviewed period were China, Malaysia, India, South Korea and Russia.

In the last week of June alone, 660,000 international tourists visited the country, marking a 2.98% increase compared to the previous week.

To maintain the growth, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to promote tourism through the "IGNITE Thailand's Tourism" policy.

Accordingly, TAT focuses on major cities and links them with other attractive destinations, starting with Northeastern provinces such as Nakhon Ratchasima which offers a comprehensive travel experience including natural, cultural and history tours.

TAT aims to make Nakhon Ratchasima the first and only UNESCO Triple Heritage City in Thailand, including Sakaerat Environmental Research Station, Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex and Khorat Geopark.

In addition, TAT is collaborating with POP MART store chain to celebrate 50 years of Thailand-China diplomatic relations through the “Welcome Ceremony of LABUBU” project for Chinese tourists.

Labubu, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and inspired by characters in Nordic fairy tales, has gained significant popularity despite its monster-like appearance. With a friendly personality and helpful nature, it features distinctive high, pointed ears and serrated teeth.

The character saw a surge in demand in Thailand after K-pop star Lisa from the girl group Blackpink shared a photo of herself holding a Labubu macaron on social media.