National –
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has decided to postpone the collection of a 300-baht ‘land entry’ fee until the fourth quarter of this year and is planning to propose the cancellation of the ‘Thailand Pass’ registration, starting next month.
Tourism Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn revealed that the postponement was decided in order to conduct additional research and thoroughly consider all dimensions regarding the matter, especially on how the fee for land arrival should be reconsidered cheaper than those for sea and air, according to his consideration. This is especially true, according to Phiphat, of nearby countries like Malaysia and Cambodia, in which a 300-baht fee to enter the country is significant to many.
A revised proposal will be re-introduced to the Cabinet, possibly in the next two months. If passed, the fee collection will be taking place 90 days after the Royal Gazette publication which could be between the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023.
Regarding the Thailand Pass cancellation, Phiphat further told the Associated Press that the Ministry will propose the matter to the CCSA (Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration) during its next meeting. The proposal will include removing an insurance requirement. He believes that the cancellation could attract more foreign tourists as they will no longer be required to purchase travel insurance or go through complicated entry procedures.
The next major CCSA meeting is set for Friday, June 17th, and is also set to cover mask mandates and later legal openings of nightlife and entertainment venues.
