• Source:JND
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Thailand is moving closer to introducing its long-discussed 300 baht tourism tax (around ₹820) for international visitors, a measure aimed at boosting tourist infrastructure and safety. The proposed levy, locally known as ‘Kha Yeap Pan Din’ or the “fee for stepping onto Thai soil,” was first floated in 2020 and approved by the cabinet in early 2023. Its rollout has faced multiple delays due to administrative and logistical hurdles. 

Thailand’s new Tourism and Sports Minister, AtthakornSirilatthayakorn, recently announced that the government is preparing to implement the tax during his tenure. Officials have been instructed to inform the public about how the collected funds will be used. According to the minister, the levy will primarily support tourist insurance and infrastructure upgrades to improve travel safety and comfort.

“This tax is critical,” Atthakorn emphasised, stressing the need for transparency so that travellers understand how their contributions strengthen the tourism ecosystem. He also acknowledged that some tourists might view the extra cost as a deterrent, particularly given rising global travel expenses.

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How The Tax Will Work

The concept of the Thailand tourist tax isn’t new. Initially, the plan proposed 300 baht for air travellers and 150 baht for land or sea arrivals, though a formal start date was never established. . Previous ministers had eyed the end of 2025 for their implementation, but these timelines were subsequently pushed out. With new momentum under new leadership, authorities now expect the levy to take effect by mid- to late-2026, subject to procedural clearances.

In addition to the tax, Thailand will enhance tourist facilities to make places safer and more convenient for tourists. Effective communication will be critical, the minister added, so that visitors understand how their contributions are being used to shape travel experiences.

Implications For Indian Travellers

India continues to be Thailand's biggest international tourist source country. In 2024 alone, more than 2.1 million Indians came to the nation, which is a 30 per cent increase from last year. To Indian visitors, the new tax could mean an extra expense of approximately Rs 800–Rs 900 per person, depending on how it is collected.

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