The Thai government is likely to introduce visa exemption for Chinese tourists in an effort to boost arrivals over yearend, as arrivals during the first seven months of this year have fallen short of target.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports estimates that between 5 and 7 million Chinese tourists would have visited Thailand from January to July, but only two million arrived, largely due to the economic slowdown in China, forcing many Chinese to be more careful in their spending.

According to Thai travel agencies, news, including fake news in Chinese media, about their compatriots being preyed upon by Chinese gangs in Thailand, have raised concern among tourists about their safety. Also, many Chinese have chosen to travel within their country, which is far cheaper.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, in his recent discussion with operators of Thai tourism businesses, has agreed consider their proposal that Chinese tourists should be exempted from the requirement to have a visa.

The matter will, however, have to be discussed with security agencies because, among the Chinese arrivals, there may be criminal elements who will take advantage of the visa exemption.

Visa exemption is expected to come into force in October, but for a temporary period only.