BANGKOK, Jan 29 – Chinese tourists visiting Thailand for the Lunar New Year are expressing significant concerns about being kidnapped by criminal gangs linked to scam operations, despite reassurance efforts from Thai authorities.
Tourism Numbers:
Chinese nationals were the most numerous international visitors to Thailand in 2024, with nearly seven million arrivals.
Rising Concerns:
Recent high-profile kidnappings near the Thai-Myanmar border have led to a reported cancellation of 10,000 trips during the peak holiday season.
The case of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was rescued from a scam center in Myanmar after being lured to Thailand with a false job promise, has heightened these fears.
Impact on Tourism:
Thai aviation officials anticipate fewer arrivals from China during the Lunar New Year period (January 24 to February 2) compared to 2024, despite an overall increase in tourist numbers.
The fear among tourists is palpable; some, like Gao from Hainan, are traveling secretly without informing their families, choosing discretion over openness due to safety worries.
Tourist Behavior:
There’s a noticeable change in behavior among Chinese tourists, with many opting not to engage with Chinese speakers to avoid potential risks. Hu Yangfan from Zhejiang noted, “When we are here, we try not to talk too much to people who speak Chinese.”
Economic Implications:
Tourism in Thailand contributed over $50 billion to the economy in 2024, representing about 10% of the GDP. The Lunar New Year alone generated over $1 billion from Chinese visitors.
However, the recent cancellations could reduce Chinese visitor numbers by up to 17.5% this year, according to Kasikorn Bank.
Government Response:
In an unprecedented move, the Thai government released an AI-generated video of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra speaking in Mandarin to reassure Chinese tourists of their safety.
Discussions are also planned with Beijing to address these concerns further.
Local Impact:
The tourism industry, particularly tour guides like Buri Chin at the Grand Palace, are feeling the pinch. Buri, fluent in Mandarin, observed a decline in willingness among tourists to interact, suggesting a challenging season ahead.
Mixed Reactions:
Despite widespread concern, some tourists like Li from Shanghai remain unfazed, arguing that Thailand’s dependency on tourism ensures its safety for visitors.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining Thailand’s appeal as a tourist destination and addressing security issues that could tarnish its reputation. While efforts are underway to restore confidence, the immediate impact on the tourism sector during one of its busiest periods is undeniable.
Key Points:
Kidnapping Fears: Chinese tourists are increasingly worried about being kidnapped by gangs to work in scam centers, especially after high-profile cases on the Thai-Myanmar border.
Impact on Tourism: The fear has led to a significant number of trip cancellations, with estimates of 10,000 cancellations for the Lunar New Year in 2025, potentially lowering Chinese tourist numbers by 17.5% compared to the previous year.
Chinese Visitor Numbers: In 2024, nearly seven million Chinese tourists visited Thailand, making them the largest group of international visitors.
Economic Significance: Tourism contributes over $50 billion to Thailand’s economy, with the Lunar New Year period alone bringing in more than $1 billion from Chinese tourists.
Government Response: The Thai government has taken steps to reassure Chinese tourists, including an AI-generated video message from the Prime Minister in Mandarin and plans for discussions with Beijing.
Tourist Behavior: There’s a noticeable change in behavior among Chinese tourists who are now cautious about interacting with Chinese speakers, fearing they might be part of the scam operations.
Local Industry Effects: Thai tour operators and guides, particularly those who speak Mandarin, are experiencing the downturn, with some guides anticipating a lean season.
Mixed Tourist Sentiments: While many are cautious, some tourists dismiss safety concerns, believing that Thailand’s reliance on tourism ensures its safety.
