BANGKOK (Reuters), Thailand aims for 5,000,000 to 15,000,000 foreign tourists this year, as it eases restrictions on travel to promote the important tourism sector.

Since May 1, COVID-19 testing was removed from the country in Southeast Asia. The latest measures were taken by the government to revitalize its tourism sector, which typically accounts for around 12% gross domestic product.

According to Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, the government spokesperson, tourist spending is expected at 630 billion and $18.35 billion respectively, according to a statement. This projection was based on data from Thailand’s Tourism Authority.

While the numbers of tourists expected to increase by 428,000 in 2021 would be an improvement, they still fall short of the close to 40 million visitors who paid approximately 1.91 trillion baht in 2019.

Thanakorn stated that Thailand has received 742 386 foreign tourists between January and April. This number will likely rise in the future.

At a meeting that was presided by Prayuth Chanocha, the economic task force approved Friday’s extension of support for domestic travel to September, starting from May. This included a 40% subsidy on additional 1,000,000 room nights.

Thanakorn stated that domestic tourism will generate approximately 660 billion Baht in this year’s fiscal year.

According to Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, the tourism industry may not be able to return to its pre-pandemic level until 2026.

($1 = 34.36 baht)