Thai PM greets arrival of Chinese tourists on inaugural visa-free day

Thailand extended a warm welcome to the first Chinese visitors arriving on visa-exempt flights from China on Monday, marking the launch of the nation's fresh initiative to stimulate its Chinese tourist market.

Approximately 341 visitors from Shanghai landed at Suvarnabhumi airport on Monday morning, where they were greeted by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and several senior officials. Srettha said the recovery of the country's tourism industry was a top economic priority.

The Southeast Asian country recently announced its decision to allow visa-free entry for Chinese tourists from Sept. 25 until the end of February 2024, in alignment with the PM's commitment to enhancing Thailand's economy through tourism.