The Government of Thailand has put forth a tourism development strategy that looks to turn the country into one of the five leading global destinations in the next 20 years.

Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul reported that the tourism sector grossed about 10 billion baht (275.6 million USD) in revenues in 2015, a year-on-year increase of 18 percent.

The figure was attributed to the catering of 29 million tourist arrivals, which surpassed the yearly target of 28 million visitors, she noted.

A tourist site in Thailand (Photo: VNA)

The Ministry of Tourism will coordinate with the Ministry of Interior to promote tourism across the country and boost consumer spending.

Thailand plans to develop tourism products with high-added value and encourage foreign visitors to stay longer in the country.

Under the new tourism development strategy, Thailand will expedite the implementation of the “Two nations, One destination” programme as well as increase connectivity with neighbours such as Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

The nation applied the Passenger Processing Service (APPS) at international airports of Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, and Mae Fa Luang Chiang Ra, from December 1, 2015 in a bid to ensure safety for visitors.

In 2016, the system will be applied at 32 nationwide airports.

(Source: VNA)