ATTA to stimulate demand through marketing initiatives

This move was also in response to the Cabinet's rejection of the much-needed five billion baht (US$154.78 million) loan sought in the aftermath of the recent Thai political crisis.

He added that although arrival numbers had been improving since mid-June and would likely grow by 10 to 20 per cent for the rest of the year if the Thai political climate remained calm, a further 20 to 30 per cent growth could be achieved through aggressive marketing.

ATTA registrar Sawat Napol has been appointed marketing chairman to spearhead activities, slated to begin in the next few months. Works are to be carried out either solo or in tandem with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

ATTA is estimated to handle around three million of the 14 million tourists the TAT expects this year.

(Sources: Sirima Eamtako, Bangkok)