China arrivals break record

BANGKOK, 16 July 2012: More than 2 million Chinese travellers will visit Thailand this year according to the latest report released by theThai-Chinese Tourism Alliance Association.

Based on current trends, the association estimates year-end arrivals year-at 2.2 million representing an increase of 29.41% from 1.7 million visits in 2011.

TCTA honorary president, Vichit Prakobkoson, said Chinese arrivals reached 1 million trips during the first half of the year growing 20% year-on-year.

“The school holiday season in China, July to August, should bring even more visitors.”

He estimates 400,000 Chinese, up from around 150,000 to 160,000 visits, during the same period last year, will generate Bt10 billion in tourism revenue.

“There will be 100 charter flights from China during the school holidays, roughly 50 flights each to Bangkok and Phuket.”

He added: “Chinese holiday spending is driven by the growth in economy. The country has a healthy GDP and Chinese consumers are spending on travel with Thailand viewed as an attractive destination.”

TCTA is urging the Tourism Authority of Thailand to expand marketing to more Chinese cities particularly Qingdao.

Qingdao is a major city with a population of nearly 9 million in eastern Shandong province.

Around 5% to 10% of Chinese arrivals to Thailand are related to meetings and incentive business; 10% to 15% for FIT; and 70% to 80% for tour groups.

If Thailand can achieve political stability and build quality, it can attract 3 million Chinese visits by 2015, the association estimated.