From March 1, Chinese citizens can enter Thailand without a visa. And the same privilege will be accorded to Thai travellers to China.
The agreement has been confirmed by Thai PM Srettha Thavisin, according to a Nation Thailand report. He says China was the first to propose visa-free entry for Thais, with Thailand agreeing to return the favour.
“China’s move has helped boost relations and offers opportunities for tourists of both countries.”
Following the move, the PM says the Public Relations Department and other relevant bodies have been instructed to crank up the PR machine and get the message out that Thailand is ready to welcome Chinese visitors.
Travellers from China can already enter the kingdom visa-free, since the government introduced a visa waiver for visitors from China and Kazakhstan in September, followed by the same for Indian and Taiwanese nationals in November. However, the visa waiver for Chinese and Kazakh visitors was set to end on February 29.
The PM adds that he’s hopeful the Thai economy will improve this year and the visa waiver is one of several measures being considered during the first quarter.
“Since the digital wallet cash handout is expected to launch in February or March, the government is looking for other ways to stimulate the economy, such as promoting tourism, solving the problem with illegal fishing, and offering visa exemption.”
Srettha says his administration is also looking at ways to increase people’s income while reducing their expenses. The government is also considering a number of measures to boost foreign investment in the kingdom.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
