Tourism industry lauds some govt actions, calls for long-term measures
The lifting of martial law and crackdowns on illegal businesses have been the highlights of the government's six-month performance, according to tourism industry representatives, but they have called on the regime to ensure the safety and security of tour
"The private sector is happy with the past six months of the government’s administration. We [operators involved in tourism] would like to thank the government for withdrawing martial law and [reducing] illegal business at major destinations such as Phuket and Pattaya," Ittirit Kinglake, president of Tourism Council of Thailand, said yesterday.
He said the lifting of martial law had regained a lot of confidence among foreigners, especially in some Western countries and Australia, so they should return to the Kingdom in the coming high season starting in October. Meanwhile, the private sector has given the thumbs-up for the crackdown on illegal businesses and mafia gangs in Phuket and Pattaya and illegal taxis at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
"However, we need to see long-term stability, and not just for a short period. Tourism businesses need safety and confidence," Ittirit said.
Charoen Wangananont, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, said the government should come up with proactive strategies to deal with the current low season. He said many tourists were still putting off a decision to come to Thailand, but not because of its political problems and safety issues but because of the economic woes in their own countries.
Charoen also urged the government to solve the aviation-safety problem in order to enhance confidence in air travel.
Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, minister of tourism and sports, said yesterday that tourism had already bounced back to growth since the final quarter last year. She said plans for the short, medium and long terms had been drafted for the sector.
The ministry has implemented a number of tourism packages and practices, she said. These include the "Discover Thailand" campaign, issuing tourist safety measures, reducing illegal tourism businesses, promoting second-tier cities as destinations, and promoting local cultures and traditions. More cooperation with neighbouring countries has been endorsed in order to increase intra-regional travel.
The ministry aims for Bt2.2 billion in revenue from tourism this year.
