Thailand is set to implement a visa waiver for Chinese tourists from October 1, 2023, as part of efforts to rejuvenate its tourism industry, which has suffered due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While this move is aimed at attracting more visitors to the country, the Immigration Bureau chief has expressed concerns regarding potential repercussions. He has cautioned that the visa-free policy might open doors for criminal elements to enter Thailand more easily, posing a security challenge for immigration authorities. To address this, officers are prepared to work overtime to track and address any criminal groups attempting to exploit the new policy.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand anticipates that the visa waiver could lead to an influx of approximately 700,000 additional Chinese tourists during peak travel seasons, which would be a significant boost for the tourism sector’s ongoing recovery. Nevertheless, it is essential for authorities to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to mitigate the potential risks associated with increased criminal activity, ensuring that the country’s security is upheld alongside its tourism goals.