Tourism Authorities Aim 50% Hotel Occupancy Rate

Following a further relaxing of restrictions on June 1, tourism authorities in Thailand have set a goal of 50% hotel occupancy for this year to revitalize the country’s tourism industry.  According to the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Yuthasak Supasorn, hotel occupancy fell to 29% in 2020 and subsequently to 14% last year. It must return to 50% to generate more employment and stimulate economic growth.

Yuthasak believes that high-spending travelers should have average spending of around 62,580 baht, comparable to the 60,000 baht recorded during Phuket’s sandbox entry program.

Regarding flights, the load percentage must be more than 70% of available seats, but it is now under 50% compared to the 2019 average. Yuthasak believes that a higher cabin load percentage would encourage airlines to attract more travelers to Thailand.

“It is time to go ahead and get the recovery back on track by implementing certain reforms that are consistent with the long-term viability of Thai tourism.”

Yesterday, the TAT governor spoke after meeting with hotel representatives. According to a story published in the Bangkok Post, hotel companies are still anxious about hiring more qualified personnel during the peak season. They have also demanded the removal of the Thailand Pass registration system requirement, noting that airlines can verify tourist arrivals’ required vaccinations and health insurance.

Thanet Phetsuwan, the deputy TAT governor for marketing in Asia and the South Pacific, asserts that Thailand will need to promote year-round visitors, particularly from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. According to Thanet, daily arrival numbers from short-haul markets climbed in May, with India supplying the most tourists yet.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post

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