Bangkok: The government has introduced the "Check-in, Fun, Wow, East X Northeast" campaign at the Thai-Cambodian border to revitalize the local economy through tourism. The project, which includes travel and accommodation subsidies, is anticipated to generate over 90 million baht in revenue, beginning November 15.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Government Spokesperson, Ms. Ayrin Phanrit, explained that border disputes have adversely affected the local economy and society. In response, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, alongside the government, has tasked relevant agencies to expedite economic recovery and development using tourism as a primary strategy. The initiative is a collaborative effort with various partners in the tourism industry, including both government and private sector entities, to promote group tours through travel agencies. It aims to encourage travel by linking the seven Thai-Cambodian border provinces and support tourism operators, tour companies, and stakeholders within the tourism industry chain.
Ms. Airin highlighted that the project, driven by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, seeks to stimulate travel along the Thai-Cambodian border, covering the provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat. TAT will provide travel expense support based on predefined criteria and conditions for tour operators.
Tour programs that include cross-provincial travel and at least one overnight stay (300 baht per night) in the seven provinces aim to boost travel confidence among both Thai and foreign tourists. The primary objective is to rejuvenate the local economy and distribute income to local communities.
The initiative is projected to generate no less than 90 million baht in local income from expenditures on tour packages, accommodation, transportation, food, souvenirs, and local services. This influx will benefit tour operators, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and community shops, in addition to sustaining employment in the service and tourism sectors.
The "Check-in Fin Wow East X Northeast" project will commence on November 15, 2025, and continue until the 10,000 participant quota is filled. The project aims to stimulate the border economy, open up new marketing opportunities, and rejuvenate the Thai tourism sector. Tour operators interested in participating can reach out to the Tourism Council of Thailand for further information and support requests, or contact 1672 Travel Buddy.