Thailand is facing growing pressure to revise its visa-free policy for Chinese tourists. This comes amid rising concerns about transnational crimes involving some visitors from China. The policy, with the initial aim to boost tourism, is now under scrutiny for its unexpected consequences.
Rising Crime in Thailand
Recently, Senator Pol Lt Gen Wanchai called on the Thai government to rethink its visa-free policy for Chinese visitors. According to Wanchai, the policy has enabled Chinese crime syndicates to use Thailand as its headquarters.
He also expressed concern about Thailand becoming a hub for transnational crime, with its proximity to Cambodia, China, and Myanmar. Specifically, Chinese visitors abuse the visa-free policy for illegal entry, evading immigration checks.
“The visa-free policy has increased transnational crime, partly from Chinese criminals who use Thailand as a base,” Gen Wanchai remarked.
“We are becoming a hub for criminal activity and it is impacting national security and tourism,” he added.
The Case of Wang Xing
Recently, incidents have highlighted the safety issues surrounding Chinese visitors to Thailand. One high-profile case involved the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing. According to reports, a scam syndicate had lured him to Thailand and trafficked him to Myanmar.
This incident has alarmed both Thai authorities and Chinese travelers. Furthermore, warnings have flooded Chinese social media platforms about traveling to Thailand, sparking fear among potential tourists.
Thai officials are now considering urgent measures to address these security concerns. Gen Wanchai has proposed implementing a visa-on-arrival system instead to require detailed travel plans.
Proposals to the Thai Gov’t
Another idea under discussion is reducing the visa-free stay duration from 30 days to just 15. Both options aim to curb criminal activities. However, these changes could have significant implications for Thailand’s tourism-dependent economy, especially as .Chinese tourists play a vital role in Thailand’s travel sector.
Tourism operators worry that policy changes might discourage Chinese visitors, potentially harming the country’s post-pandemic recovery efforts. Still, many agree that safety must remain a priority to protect Thailand’s reputation as a travel destination.
Statistics further underline the urgency of the situation. Reports indicate an increase in crimes involving foreign nationals, including Chinese visitors. These include fraud, illegal businesses, and even violent incidents. Such cases have fueled fears that crime syndicates are exploiting Thailand and its visa-free policy as an entry point.
What’s Ahead for Thailand
Despite these concerns, there might not be any policy changes in Thailand in the near future. Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the Thai government does not have any plans to review its visa-free policy.
In addition, Deputy Defense Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit acknowledged the issue. However, he reiterated that the visa-free program’s chief purpose is to boost the economy.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that Thailand is working closely with neighboring nations to mitigate risks.
“As the Ministry of Defence is responsible for border security, it has engaged in discussions with neighbouring countries through available mechanisms,” said Gen Nattaphon. “It has also tightened inspections of individuals crossing the borders, both through checkpoints and natural crossings.”
Photo by Minseok Kwak on Unsplash
