Agents flag economic risk from departure tax

PUBLISHED : 7 May 2026 at 07:01

NEWSPAPER SECTION: Business

WRITER: Narumon Kasemsuk

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The Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) is concerned about economic and social risks if the government introduces a 1,000-baht departure tax for local travellers, as the policy could trigger even higher airfares and hamper middle-class travellers, students and Mice (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) segments.

After the Thai Travel Agents Association expressed its disagreement with the proposal last week, Atta clarified its opposition to the levy on Wednesday.

Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of Atta, said there were 32.9 million foreign arrivals last year, almost three times the outbound market of 11-12 million people.

He said disrupting outbound flows with a 1,000-baht fee is expected to reduce reciprocal tourism.

Many countries promote two-way tourism to maintain traffic, especially during the Middle East conflict, as they cannot rely on one-way air traffic flow due to limited travel demand.

"A strong outbound market strengthens Thailand's position and creates opportunities for bilateral agreements, such as visa-free schemes or trade agreements, all of which benefit the country's image and economy," Mr Adith said.

In contrast, a departure tax would contradict the strategy of building bargaining power on the world stage, as well as create risks for various groups, he noted.

The aviation industry relies on load factors for both outbound and inbound flights. If fewer Thais travel, airlines have to bear the cost of empty seats on outbound flights, forcing them to raise inbound ticket prices to compensate.

From a diplomatic stance, when the government attempts to negotiate for visa-free entry for Thais, this levy would create a negative international perception and might lead to retaliatory tariffs or stricter visa measures from trading partners, Mr Adith said.

In terms of business, he said implementing this tax would not only affect tourists, but also increase costs for small businesses, startups and investors who need to travel overseas for study trips, trade negotiations or to participate in Mice events, blocking opportunities for Thai businesses to expand their markets.

This levy could entrench social inequality, as a 1,000-baht tax would be a major barrier for students and low-income earners, obstructing their chance at self-development through travel, Mr Adith said.

"To promote sustainable tourism, the government must look beyond simply extracting short-term revenue from local pockets, instead viewing Thais travelling abroad as diplomatic ambassadors and bargaining assets for the country," he said.

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- KEYWORDS

- Thailand departure tax

- Atta

- Thai travel agents association

- Outbound tourism

- Aviation industry

- Thai economy

- Travel policy