On December 20, a seminar titled “ISAN NEXT: Revitalizing Thailand’s Economy Amid Global Challenges” was held at Ratchaphruek Auditorium, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, in Nakhon Ratchasima. Organized by the university in collaboration with Matichon Group, the event highlighted strategies for boosting tourism and regional development.
Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thapanee Kiatphaibool, presented insights on leveraging soft power and cultural identity for sustainable tourism. Addressing the audience, she emphasized three key dimensions: stimulating demand, enhancing supply, and striving for excellence. She noted that with nearly 33.9 million international visitors this year, projections for 2025 aim for 40 million, driven by innovative policies such as free visa exemptions for select countries and improved flight connectivity.
Thapanee highlighted the importance of shaping the Isan region as an attractive destination, with strategies to meet evolving traveler preferences. She cited the rising interest of Indian tourists, especially families, in destinations offering theme parks and recreational facilities. This demographic, she explained, represents a significant opportunity for Northeast Thailand.
The TAT’s focus on integrating digital payment systems and formalizing informal economic activities aims to enhance transparency and revenue collection. Current tourism-related income stands at 2.8 trillion baht, with efforts to bring untapped revenue into official channels set to bolster the sector further.
Thapanee also underscored Thailand’s position as a tourism hub within ASEAN, referencing Bangkok’s ranking by Euromonitor International as the world’s top city for international visitors. Plans for 2025 include hosting the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and promoting the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sport Year” campaign to attract sports tourists.
The seminar also featured contributions from officials, including university leaders and Matichon Group executives, who supported the event’s mission to position Isan as a key player in Thailand’s tourism landscape.
