Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi seek aid for tourism

Krit Srifa, president of the Phang Nga Tourism Association, said on behalf of the Andaman Tourism Association that there had been a meeting among representatives of tourism operators, state agencies and banks in the three provinces on the effects of the political turmoil.

He added that all parties had agreed to ask for financial help from the government by extending debt moratorium periods and offering them soft loans to enable both operators and workers to survive.

Krit said tourism business entrepreneurs in Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi had just recovered from The tsunami that hit the area four years ago. Most tourism entrepreneurs had to borrow money from financial institutions to improve and recover their businesses following the disaster. Since then, the number of tourists had gradually improved - until the current political conflict erupted.

"The political turbulence has led the tourism industry during the peak season this year into a terrible situation. Room reservations were cancelled as a result of the temporary closure of the two airports [Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang], which were seized by anti-government protesters. Meanwhile, foreign tourists have gone to neighbouring countries. So, occupancy rates have sharply declined," he said.

Krit added that tourism entrepreneurs in the three provinces would also ask the government to reduce taxes to help them. The government should also boost foreign tourists' confidence, particularly after the new administration is formed.

He expects tourism revenue in Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi this year will reach Bt9 billion.

"However, if the political conflict is still prolonged to the new-year festival, tourism revenue in the three provinces may decline by 50-60 per cent from the target," he said.

Sathit Nillawong, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand southern region office, said political uncertainty had affected tourism in the south of the country. The TAT has therefore tried to organise several activities in order to boost confidence among foreigners.

It hopes to lure tourists from Scandinavian and other European countries back to Thailand soon.