The Latest Breaking News from Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn

The flow of Russian tourists started to slow before the mutiny in Moscow last weekend, but more long-stay travellers might flock to Thailand if the political tension escalates, according to the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta).

A crack in Thailand's tourism industry has become more apparent after the country's seven major tourism associations recently resigned from the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), preparing to revive the Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (Fetta) in an effort to adjust the balance of power.

The number of Chinese visitors might not reach the government's target of 5 million this year as arrivals in the first four months were lower than expected.

As a popular tourism destination, Thailand expects to welcome at least 25 million foreigners this year, with roughly 5 million from China, representing 50% of the Chinese visitor total in 2019.

After the Songkran celebrations peter out, Thais must contemplate the general election on May 14 and decide whether political parties' campaign pledges will really create a healthier economy.

The Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) expects 1 million Chinese tourists in the second quarter of this year, following positive signs of flight resumptions, while urging authorities to help regulate "zero-dollar" tours and illegal tour guides.

Spending among Chinese tourists has not been affected by the global economic slowdown as there is huge pent-up demand following a three-year hiatus, helping to stimulate the market, says a travel agent group.

Tourism operators are concerned about the transparency of the Tourism Promotion Fund, which is estimated to have a budget of more than 13 billion baht from the 300-baht tourism fee collected from international visitors.

Tourism operators have slammed the Thai police VIP escort service sold online in China, saying the move severely damaged the image of Thailand.