Thailand's tourism numbers drop after a turbulent year

Thailand recorded 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, a 7.2% decline from 2024, and officials attribute the fall to several reported incidents and natural events.

Thailand recorded fewer international visitors in 2025 after a year of several disruptive events. The country registered 32.9 million foreign arrivals between January and December, a 7.2 percent decline from 2024. Authorities and tourism data cite a mix of reported security incidents and natural events as contributors. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has set a target to raise arrivals again in 2026. Key figures and causes: - Thailand had 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, down 7.2% from 2024 when arrivals exceeded 35 million. - Top source markets in 2025 were Malaysia (4.52 million), China (4.47 million) and India (2.48 million). - Reported factors linked to the drop include the January 2025 abduction of a Chinese actor in Bangkok, aftershocks from a 7.7 magnitude quake in northern Myanmar, a border conflict with Cambodia, and severe southern flooding. - The Tourism Authority of Thailand aims to welcome 36.7 million foreign tourists in 2026 and expects 70% of arrivals to be short‑haul visitors. The government also ran a promotion offering free domestic flights to some incoming international tourists. Summary: Thailand's foreign arrivals declined in 2025 to 32.9 million, which tourism officials say followed a series of regional incidents and weather events. The tourism authority has set a 2026 target of 36.7 million visitors and has used promotional measures; further outcomes are undetermined at this time.