Thailand is progressing with two separate tax proposals that could see international visitors paying a THB450 (R220) tourist tax on arrival and a THB1 000 (R490) departure tax when leaving the country by air.
The proposed tourist tax has moved a step closer to implementation following consultations between Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul, government officials, tourism representatives and civil society groups on guidelines for collecting the fee.
Of those who participated, 80% supported the proposed tourist tax, while 78% approved the THB450 fee.
Part of the revenue generated by the proposed tax would finance insurance for visitors who have paid the fee, including certain medical expenses and death benefits.
Thailand’s Finance Ministry is working on a separate proposal for a THB1 000 departure tax, with a public consultation running until the end of the month.
Under the proposal, the tax would apply to passengers of all nationalities departing Thailand by air and would be included in the ticket price.
Children aged two or younger, certain transit passengers and crew members would be exempt.