Paris attacks could lead to boost in Thai tourism

The Paris terror attacks may have an unexpected effect on Thailand – boosting its tourism as visitors shun Europe.

That’s according to the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), who said many foreign tourists were likely to change their Europe travel plans and head to Asia instead – giving a lift to Thailand and its economy.

Thailand’s GDP could expand by 3.5 percent in the last three months of the year, making this year’s economic growth 3 percent, reported the Nation.

“The Thai stock market and economies in Asia could gain from the likely capital movement. Mostly, foreign capital is expected to move into Asian stock markets, particularly Thailand’s. The baht is also expected to be volatile in the short term,” said NIDA exec Montri Sokatiyanurak.

The Nov 13 attacks, carried out by Islamic militants, killed 130 and injured scores more in a series of coordinated shootings and bombings.

Although cops have made 21 arrests, they are still hunting main suspect Salah Abdeslam, believed to be hiding in Belgium.