The Thai government has rolled out a new tourism stimulus campaign titled “Check-in Fin Wow: East X Northeast” to spur domestic travel and revitalise local economies in seven border provinces along the Thai–Cambodian frontier.
Launching on November 15, the programme will offer subsidies for travel and accommodation through participating tour operators, with authorities estimating an economic boost exceeding 90 million baht.
Deputy government spokeswoman Aiyarin Phanrit said the initiative follows economic disruptions caused by recent border tensions.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed state agencies to harness tourism as a key driver for grassroots recovery.
He urged collaboration between government bodies and private enterprises to create travel packages connecting Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat — all located along the eastern and northeastern border regions.
According to Ms. Aiyarin, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will provide financial support to registered tour companies that organise cross-provincial trips including at least one overnight stay in target areas.
The goal is to rebuild travel confidence among both Thai and foreign visitors while distributing tourism income directly to local communities.
Expenditures under the campaign, encompassing transport, lodging, dining, souvenirs, and community-based services, are expected to stimulate business for tour operators, hotels, restaurants, and local retailers, thereby generating additional employment across the tourism and service sectors.
The project will accommodate up to 10,000 participants, with registration available through the Tourism Council of Thailand or the TAT’s 1672 Hotline.
