BANGKOK – Thailand plans to start collecting a 300 baht (S$12) fee from foreign tourists arriving in the country starting from June, with the money to be used to support visitors involved in accidents and develop tourist destinations, said a minister on Wednesday.

Tourism is a crucial sector in South-east Asias second-largest economy and contributed about 12 per cent of gross domestic product before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Fees wont be collected from foreigners with work permits and border passes, said Tourism Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, adding that Thailand expects 25 million tourist arrivals in 2023.

The proposal was first considered in 2022 and will be subject to Cabinet approval.

Tourism spending is forecast to reach at least 2.38 trillion baht in 2023, said Mr Phiphat. In 2019, Thailand welcomed nearly 40 million arrivals. REUTERS More On This Topic Thailand welcomes returning China tourists with flowers, gift bags Asian tourism-focused businesses ready for China rebound as border reopens