Thailand battles to lure back Chinese tourists with visa-exempt entry

Thailand battles to lure back Chinese tourists with visa-exempt entry  Victoria Advocate

Thailand battles to lure back Chinese tourists with visa-exempt entry

Holiday Destination Thailand Offers Visa-Exempt Entry for Chinese Nationals

Introduction

The holiday destination of Thailand is taking steps to attract more Chinese tourists by granting visa-exempt entry for Chinese nationals. The new policy, announced by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is known for his close ties with conglomerates, will be implemented from September 25 to February 29, which coincides with the nation’s peak holiday season. In addition to China, the visa-exempt entry also applies to Kazakhstan. This move comes as China faces economic challenges, resulting in a slower-than-expected recovery in outbound tourism. Despite welcoming around 1.6 million Chinese tourists in the first six months of the year, Thailand is still short of its target of five million Chinese visitors by the end of the year. Chinese tourists are increasingly choosing other destinations in the region, such as Cambodia, which offers a more diverse history. The tourism industry plays a significant role in the Thai economy, directly contributing 11.5% of the country’s GDP in 2019.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The visa-waiver policy implemented by Thailand aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. These goals include:

  1. Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – By attracting more Chinese tourists, Thailand aims to boost its travel industry revenue, which will contribute to economic growth and create job opportunities.
  2. Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The visa-exempt entry policy demonstrates Thailand’s efforts to improve its tourism infrastructure and attract foreign investment in the industry.
  3. Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – While the policy carries certain risks, such as crime and corruption associated with Chinese gangs in Bangkok, it also highlights the importance of creating safe and sustainable cities for tourists.
  4. Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – By promoting tourism, Thailand encourages responsible consumption and sustainable practices in the travel industry.

Conclusion

The decision to grant visa-exempt entry for Chinese nationals reflects Thailand’s commitment to attracting more tourists and boosting its tourism industry. By aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Thailand aims to achieve sustainable economic growth, improve its infrastructure, create job opportunities, and promote responsible consumption and production in the travel sector. However, it is crucial for the government to address the risks associated with this policy, such as crime and corruption, to ensure the safety and well-being of both tourists and local communities.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products No specific indicators mentioned in the article
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Target 16.4: By 2030, significantly reduce illicit financial and arms flows, strengthen the recovery and return of stolen assets, and combat all forms of organized crime No specific indicators mentioned in the article
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals Target 17.1: Strengthen domestic resource mobilization, including through international support to developing countries, to improve domestic capacity for tax and other revenue collection No specific indicators mentioned in the article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

– Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.

– Target 16.4: By 2030, significantly reduce illicit financial and arms flows, strengthen the recovery and return of stolen assets, and combat all forms of organized crime.

– Target 17.1: Strengthen domestic resource mobilization, including through international support to developing countries, to improve domestic capacity for tax and other revenue collection.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

The article does not mention any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

Note: The article does not provide detailed information or data on the specific actions, policies, or initiatives related to the targets and indicators. Therefore, it is difficult to assess the progress or impact based solely on the information provided in the article.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: victoriaadvocate.com

 

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