Quake Jolts Thai Tourism: Rising Concerns Over Safety. The tourism sector, vital to Thailand's economy, is bracing for a short-term impact as Minister of Tourism Sorawong Thienthong assured tourists of their safety. Meanwhile, an audit of hotels and tourist attractions is underway to ease fears. ASEAN NOW

Rescuers use a heavy duty machine to clear the rubble in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, March 29, 2025, as they search for victims at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after Friday's earthquake. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

The recent 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar has shaken up Thailand's tourism, already wobbling under safety concerns.

 

The quake, which rocked buildings in Bangkok and other hot spots, may cause a drastic 10%-15% drop in international tourist arrivals over the next fortnight, according to the Thai Hotels Association. Concerns over safety have already led 10% of foreign tourists to check out early, though some returned due to lack of alternatives.

 

The tourism sector, vital to Thailand's economy, is bracing for a short-term impact as Minister of Tourism Sorawong Thienthong assured tourists of their safety. Meanwhile, an audit of hotels and tourist attractions is underway to ease fears.

 

 

 

The economy, where tourism fuels employment for about 20% of the workforce and accounts for 13% of GDP, is already striving for a 3% growth amid trade export challenges.

 

While Bangkok faced structural damage, most notably the tragic collapse of a high-rise construction site leading to fatalities, the swift assurance from Thai authorities aims to bolster tourism confidence.

 

Although the bustling Songkran festival approaches, current bookings are below pre-pandemic levels, reflecting persistent safety concerns. Chinese tourists, a significant demographic, remain hesitant due to past regional safety issues.

 

Despite the tremors, the year-to-date figures show a slight increase in tourism numbers, reaching 8.9 million, yet challenges remain with falling numbers since February's Lunar New Year surge.

 

Experts predict a potential decline from the forecasted 38.1 million arrivals this year, highlighting the urgent need to address safety perceptions. For Thailand, known for its enchanting beaches and cultural sites, the quake is yet another bump on an already rocky road in tourism recovery.

 

Based on a story by Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-03-31