JOHOR BARU — Thailand has presented an ambitious vision for promoting ASEAN-India tourism cooperation during the 12th ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers Meeting in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on January 20.
The initiative included plans for the “ASEAN-India Forum 2025” and emphasized the development of two-way tourism, including a notable focus on Hindi language training programs to accommodate growing Indian tourist arrivals.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong reported that Indian tourist arrivals to Thailand reached 2,129,149 in 2024, marking a 30.73% increase from 2023’s figure of 1,628,542. This growth follows Thailand’s implementation of a 60-day visa exemption policy for Indian tourists and business travelers.
During the meeting, Minister Thienthong outlined four key strategic initiatives:
- Sustainable and responsible tourism development
- Enhanced tourism marketing capabilities through the “ASEAN-India Forum: Journey of Opportunities” in 2025
- Implementation of Hindi language training programs for tourism personnel
- Promotion of two-way tourism with increased direct flights and travel packages between ASEAN and Indian cities
The Tourism Authority of Thailand stated at the ASEAN-India Forum in 2025, inviting ASEAN member states and stakeholders to participate in strengthening the region’s tourism competitiveness. The initiative aims to capitalize on the designation of 2025 as the ASEAN-India Tourism Year.
The Thai delegation at the meeting included Deputy Tourism Minister Chakraphon Tangsutthitham and Deputy Director-General of the Department of Tourism Nattira Phaengkhun. The next ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers Meeting is scheduled for January 2026 in Cebu, Philippines.
This comprehensive approach reflects Thailand’s commitment to strengthening tourism ties between ASEAN and India, focusing on sustainable development, cultural exchange, and mutual economic benefits.
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