Chongqing—Positioning Chongqing as the gateway to China's vast western market, Thailand launched its 2025 national tourism roadshow in the city on July 28. The roadshow anchors Thailand's "Golden Year" plan to attract 5 million Chinese travelers with visa-free access and customized luxury adventures.

On July 28, the Thailand Tourism Roadshow, co-hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), concluded in Southwest China's Chongqing. (Photo: The event organizer)

The event, led by Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, brought together a high-profile Thai delegation comprising over 50 leading tourism enterprises, including luxury hotels, resorts, popular attractions, and travel agencies, for business discussions with more than 200 travel operators and 300 industry professionals from Sichuan and Chongqing. 

On July 28, led by TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, the event sparked lively discussions & strong partnerships. (Photo: The event organizer)

Sake Nopthaisong, Consul-General of Thailand in Chengdu, delivered an opening speech, "2025 marks the 'Golden Year' of Thailand-China relations, presenting historic opportunities for tourism cooperation. Thailand will continue to enhance its services, offering Chinese tourists diverse, high-quality travel experiences."

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool emphasized that Chongqing, a key transportation and economic hub in Western China, was strategically chosen as the first stop of TAT's 2025 China roadshow. This decision reflects Thailand's commitment to deepening tourism collaboration with China.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool emphasized that Chongqing, a key transportation and economic hub in Western China, was strategically chosen as the first stop of TAT's 2025 China roadshow. (Photo: The event organizer)

From September to December, the "Nihao Months" campaign will offer Chinese tourists exclusive discounts and privileges across dining, shopping, and major attractions, with special Mid-Autumn Festival packages designed to celebrate this important cultural occasion. The "Amazing Thailand" marketing campaign has been specifically tailored to cater to the preferences of Chinese travelers. The "Thailand Summer Blast" program will also collaborate with airlines to provide charter flight options and incentives for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.

"We regard Chinese tourists as family and strive to ensure every visitor experiences the warmth of Thai hospitality," said Ms. Thapanee. "Tourism is a bridge connecting our peoples—just as Chongqing’s fiery hotpot complements Thailand's welcoming smiles, our cultural bonds grow stronger over time."

Zhu Mao, Deputy Director of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, highlighted the city's close ties with Thailand, "Since the mutual visa exemption policy between China and Thailand took effect in March 2024, the number of Thai tourists visiting Chongqing has surged. The pairing of "Thailand and Chongqing" has frequently made headlines in domestic and international media, with "Chongqing filled with Thai tourists" becoming a sensational topic. This has become a celebrated story of win-win tourism development in the Lancang-Mekong region."

Chongqing, as a founding member of the Lancang-Mekong Tourism City Cooperation Alliance, is committed to expanding collaboration with Thailand beyond tourism into trade, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. Zhu extended an invitation for Thai partners to attend the 2025 Chongqing International Travel Agents Conference and Lancang-Mekong Tourism City Alliance Exchange Event in November, where they can explore Chongqing's renowned hotpot, hot springs, and the majestic Three Gorges.

Chen Weiqi, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Chengdu Office, observed that Chinese travelers to Thailand are increasingly seeking personalized experiences. "Young middle-class tourists prefer niche adventures, while family and senior travelers are driving demand for premium leisure and wellness trips," he explained. 

In response to these evolving market trends, Thailand is actively developing innovative tourism products and experiences tailored to these specific needs. The country is introducing themed family vacation packages, wellness retreat programs, cultural immersion workshops, as well as niche adventure itineraries. 

The roadshow served as a dynamic platform for Thai and Chinese tourism stakeholders to forge meaningful partnerships. By showcasing Thailand’s latest travel products and fostering direct business connections, the event has laid a solid foundation for future cooperation.