Thailand’s tourism industry is sure to suffer after the series of bombings last week. The country could lose over THB10 billion and 200,000 tourists, according to the head of the tourism authority.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) state governor, Yuthasak Supasorn, said that the attacks in tourist destinations in south Thailand last week could damage the country’s tourism industry and the repercussions could be long-term.
In a statement, he said that there could be anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 travel cancelations by the end of the year and those could cause the industry to lose THB5.8 billion to THB10.16 billion, reported Bangkok Post.
According to Thai Airways Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Narongchai Wongthanavimok, consumer confidence in businesses in Thailand will be affected by the series of bombings.
In a country plagued with political instability for more than a decade, the tourism industry is one that has remained strong despite uncertainties.
Before the bombings, Thailand was anticipating a record-breaking 32 million foreign visitors this year, with revenue projected to be at THB2.41 trillion.
So far, no groups have come out to claim responsibility for the series of bombings. A sketch of the Phuket bomb suspect has been released by the police who have tightened security in hopes of catching him.
Foreign embassies in Thailand are warning their citizens to be vigilant as they believe more attacks could take place.
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