Tourexpi
Thailand Leads Push to Strengthen Two-Way Travel Between India and ASEAN
Thailand,
acting as the Lead Country for Promotion and Marketing, is driving efforts to
enhance two-way travel between India and ASEAN member states, aiming to
position the region as a premier destination for Indian tourists.
Ms.
Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing –
Asia and South Pacific, emphasized: “Within the ASEAN-India cooperation
framework, tourism has long been a pillar of mutual growth. Thailand sees
tremendous potential in strengthening two-way travel between India and
ASEAN—delivering shared benefits across the region.”
The
forum, held on 23 July under the theme “Journey of Opportunities: Ignite Indian
Travel to ASEAN,” aligned with the ASEAN-India Cooperation Work Plan 2023–2027
and brought together senior policymakers and tourism leaders for a day of
strategic dialogue.
Opening
remarks from TAT were followed by a keynote session featuring Ms Verna Eseralda
C. Buensuceso, Chair of ASEAN NTOs; H.E. Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of
ASEAN; and H.E. Mr Nagesh Singh, Ambassador of India to Thailand. Speakers
underscored the importance of regional cooperation and adapting to evolving
traveler preferences.
Two
panel discussions shaped the forum’s agenda. The morning session focused on the
rising influence of Indian Millennials and Gen Z, featuring insights from
Booking.com, Thai AirAsia, Radisson Hotels and Resorts, and a well-known Indian
travel influencer. Speakers highlighted the increasing demand for personalized,
socially-driven experiences and culturally immersive, event-based travel.
In
the afternoon, attention turned to the booming Indian wedding and honeymoon
market, valued at over US$130 billion. Tourism stakeholders from across ASEAN
discussed the region’s ability to host grand, multi-day celebrations requiring
culturally specific services such as vegetarian catering and high-end
hospitality.
The
forum concluded with a collaborative workshop on “Partnership Marketing
Promotion.” ASEAN and Indian participants addressed shared challenges and
explored strategies to enhance visa processes, improve connectivity, create
appealing travel packages, and develop niche tourism products—key steps to
boosting two-way travel and market readiness.
Following
the forum, delegates took part in a technical tour to Pattaya in Chon Buri
Province, a popular destination for Indian travelers. The visit highlighted
Thailand’s readiness to deliver customized, high-quality tourism experiences.
In
2023, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia were among the top 15
destinations for Indian travelers. By 2024, Thailand welcomed over two million
Indian visitors, securing India’s place among its top three inbound tourism
markets.
Image
Credit: © TAT
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