Thailand received no foreign tourists or related spending in April after closing its borders and banning most incoming international flights to fight the novel coronavirus outbreak.
Tourism accounted for about a fifth of gross domestic product before the pandemic, as holidaymakers flocked to sample azure waters, sandy beaches, gastronomic delights and Bangkok’s sometimes infamous nightlife. Chinese visitors were the biggest source of foreign receipts.
The nation remains under a state of emergency but is loosening a partial lockdown in stages to kickstart its economy after virus cases dwindled. Some provinces have allowed hotels to open their doors again, though domestic tourism is sputtering because of Covid-19 restrictions.
(Source: Bloomberg)