Chinese Embassy Issues Urgent Scam Warning for Tourists Heading to Thailand
Beijing urges citizens to avoid "cheap tours" after videos surface showing illegal guides coercing tourists into making high-priced purchases
- The Chinese Embassy has issued a warning to its citizens about "cheap tour" scams in Thailand where tourists are pressured into buying expensive goods.
- The warning was prompted by an incident involving an unlicensed Chinese national, illegally acting as a tour guide, who coerced tourists into making purchases.
- The embassy advises travelers to book with licensed, reputable companies, avoid suspiciously low prices, and contact the Thai Tourist Police or the embassy for assistance if issues arise.
The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Thailand has issued a formal public advisory, warning Chinese tourists visiting the country to exercise caution when booking travel, particularly urging them to steer clear of misleading "cheap tours."
The warning follows the recent online circulation of videos depicting Chinese tourists being forced to buy expensive goods while on tour in Thailand.
On Wednesday, 15 October 2025, the Chinese Embassy confirmed it took the matter seriously and immediately contacted the Thai Tourist Police and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to launch an investigation.
Thai authorities subsequently determined that the individual involved was a Chinese passport holder who did not possess a valid Thai tour guide licence.
This individual had pressured tourists into purchasing items and soliciting commissions on the sales. Authorities have since investigated the associated tour company and are moving to take legal action against all parties involved.
Advice for Tourists
The Chinese Embassy’s advisory repeatedly warns tourists against being swayed by suspiciously low prices.
It recommends that when selecting a group tour, travellers must choose a licensed and reputable outbound tour company that offers quality services at a reasonable price and provides a formal contract.
The Embassy stressed a key legal point: under Thai law, foreign nationals are prohibited from working as tour guides in the country.
The statement concluded with advice on handling disputes: travellers should use discretion, retain all evidence of wrongdoing, and seek immediate assistance by contacting the Thai Tourist Police hotline at 1155 or the Chinese Embassy’s consular protection hotline at 02-245-7010.
