Thailand Minister of Tourism wants to push on tourism stimulus despite intensifying war with Cambodia

The Bangkok Post reported on Saturday December 13, that Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry is now pressing ahead with plans to roll out two tourism stimulus initiatives. This could happen despite the dissolution of the House of Representatives on Friday and the resignation of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul‘s government.

While the Ministry of tourism estimates that policy momentum remains intact, tourism operators say their immediate priorities lie elsewhere than another financial stimulus package. Professionals look at quick rebuilding of flood-hit destinations and at ensuring stability along the Thai-Cambodian border.

However, tourism and Sports Minister Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn said the ministry continues to have the legal authority to advance tourism policy despite the political transition. He confirmed that proposed stimulus measures will be submitted for consideration at the next cabinet meeting, leaving it to the caretaker government to determine whether they move forward.

Among the proposals is the “Tour Thai Khon La Khrueng” co-payment program, which would cover 50% of the cost of domestic tour packages for Thai travelers. The ministry is also still seeking approval for a scheme to distribute 200,000 complimentary domestic flight tickets to foreign visitors.

The move is designed to encourage travel within the country and spread tourism revenue more evenly. Both measures were announced in August with much fanfare…

No impact of Thailand’s government’s dissolution on tourism

For the private sector, the news came as little surprise. Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), explained to the Bangkok Post that tourism businesses have already largely factored the political calendar into their planning.

With a caretaker government now in place and a general election required within 60 days—widely expected in February 2026—Mr. Chairattananon said the impact on inbound tourism should be minimal. According to him, the dissolution of parliament alone is unlikely to deter visitors. Travelers, he said, generally recognize that political transitions do not disrupt tourism operations.

The dissolution date meanwhile happens in the middle of the peak travel season. Most visitors have already booked trips for a long time, and operators continue to see solid growth momentum.

The Tourism Minister however underlined that festivals and major events are proceeding as scheduled. Charter flights carrying Chinese tourists have already begun arriving. These developments suggest that Thailand’s tourism machine remains largely insulated from domestic political shifts, at least in the short term.

Tourism is shaken by recent floods in Hat Yai and the conflict with Cambodia

Instead, industry concerns are focused on restoring traveler confidence in specific areas. Chief among them is the rehabilitation of Hat Yai, a key southern hub, which recently suffered flood damage. Preparing the city to once again welcome Malaysian tourists is seen as critical to the region’s recovery.

Stability along the Thai-Cambodian border is another pressing issue. Recent flights have a lingering effect on perceptions of safety, and tourism leaders are urging the caretaker government to prioritize de-escalation and the restoration of calm. The ongoing conflict is also damaging Thailand’s image. Even if the Thai military justifies intervention at the border for national security reasons.

Looking ahead, tourism operators hope the next elected government will continue to place the sector high on its agenda. Provided no unexpected disruptions arise, ATTA meanwhile forecasts between 8 million and 9 million Chinese arrivals next year. It would drive total international arrivals to an estimated 37–38 million.