THAILAND. Arrivals duty free shopping for international brands may be scrapped amid a wave of government measures to stimulate tourism spending within the country, particularly on local goods, according to a report in the Bangkok Post.
The Moodie Davitt Report has since verified the report with King Power International but we emphasise any such move is still at proposal stage.
Citing government spokesman Chai Wacharonke, the report said that arrivals duty free shops could possibly sell Thai products instead. Departures duty free is unaffected.
The move is one of five measures designed to bolster the country’s status as a premier destination for tourism and shopping during their time in Thailand, the report said. Three ministries – Finance, Foreign Affairs and Interior – will now study the measures and report to the cabinet early next year.
Another measure is to create more tax and financial incentives to fuel domestic consumption among local and international visitors. This policy aims to support locally made products frequently purchased by tourists including perfumes, clothes and fashion bags.
The proposal also includes enhancing the excise tax structure on certain products so they can be sold at more attractive prices compared to other countries.
The government is also considering the extension of operating hours of entertainment venues in key tourist districts.
The fifth measure will extend the visa exemption policy to more countries to strengthen tourism exchanges and bolster the local economy. ✈
