Tourism in Thailand is expected to grow next year, with foreign arrivals anticipated to hit 14 million, up from 12 million in 2009.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) puts the expected growth down to a stabilization of the political environment, with a recovery due in Q4 this year and a return to normal tourism levels for 2010. Even the 12 million figure may prove beatable given that the more conservative economic climate may result in regional holidaymakers across the sector, both high-end and low cost charters looking at staying within Asia rather than taking more expensive trips to the United States and Europe. 

The TAT will commence promoting Thai tourism via international media outlets such as CNN over the next few months. The campaign is expected to cost over US$35million. Chinese tourists are expected to lead the new wave of holidaymakers, with an increase of 40 percent in volume to around1.2 million visitors, with Japanese nationals second with 1 million arrivals. Proactive campaigns in both countries will commence “almost immediately” according to the TAT. The government has also agreed to waive visa fees for tourists at all international airports in Thailand until March 4, 2010, with a review of extending this further to take place later this year.