Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Thailand is poised to see a substantial surge in its tourism industry, with expectations of 40 million international visitors by the year 2568 (Buddhist Era). The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with Kasikorn Bank, has launched the TAGTHAi Easy Pay e-wallet to streamline transactions for tourists, enhancing the overall visitor experience. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy to drive post-pandemic recovery and stimulate the economy through increased tourism spending.
Forecasts suggest that the number of foreign tourists visiting Thailand will range between 38 and 40 million, marking a 13% increase from 2562 (pre-COVID-19), when 39.8 million tourists came to the country. In 2567, Thailand welcomed 35.5 million foreign tourists, generating 1.67 trillion baht in revenue—a 34% increase from the previous year. For 2568, the tourism revenue target is set at 2 trillion baht, reflecting an ambitious 20% growth.
From January 1 to March 2, 2568, Thailand recorded 7.02 million foreign visitors, generating around 343.4 billion baht in just the first two months. Leading the charge in tourist arrivals are travelers from China, Malaysia, Russia, the United Kingdom, and India, who are making significant contributions to the tourism sector. With tourism representing about 15% of the nation’s GDP, these positive trends are critical for Thailand’s economic recovery.
The TAGTHAi Easy Pay system is a key component of the TAT’s ‘Year of Tourism and Sports’ campaign, designed to simplify financial transactions for international visitors. This initiative allows tourists to use e-wallets for payments instead of cash, making spending easier and more efficient. Through a partnership with Kasikorn Bank, the ‘Prepaid PAY&TOUR’ card has been developed, seamlessly connecting with the TAGTHAi app, offering a smooth experience for foreign tourists to manage their expenses like locals.
Launched in 2562, the TAGTHAi platform has gained significant traction, surpassing 2 million downloads by late 2567, representing a remarkable 105% increase. Sales processed through the app skyrocketed by 183%, highlighting its growing popularity among both local and international users. By integrating the TAGTHAi Easy Pay system with the Prepaid PAY&TOUR card, this initiative is uniquely positioned to cater to the evolving digital payment habits of today’s travelers.
These advancements do more than improve the visitor experience; they reflect Thailand’s broader vision for reviving its tourism industry with a focus on sustainable and inclusive growth. The e-wallet service is set to roll out across more than 100 locations nationwide, enhancing accessibility for tourists at various entry points throughout the country.
Officials anticipate that the TAGTHAi Easy Pay system will boost the overall economic value retained within the local economy by encouraging tourists to spend more at local businesses rather than relying solely on international chains. This strategy is part of a larger effort to foster economic revival, strengthen community connections, and support the livelihoods of Thais who depend on tourism.
Through the implementation of innovative solutions and strategic plans, Thailand is not only aiming for higher visitor numbers but also redefining how tourists interact with its dynamic economy. These efforts signify both recovery and growth, setting the stage for another potential landmark year for Thai tourism.
