Thailand’s strengthening currency is raising concerns across the tourism industry, Bangkok Post reports.
The baht is currently trading between 30 and 32 per US dollar and has appreciated significantly in recent years, rising about 9% in 2025 and continuing to strengthen in 2026.
With the baht already trading around 30-32 per US dollar, further strengthening could cost the country up to 15-17% in tourism revenue, according to Yuthasak Supasorn, chairman of the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand and former governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
He warned that a stronger baht would make Thailand less competitive, particularly for long-haul travellers, while regional tourists may turn to destinations such as Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia.
Separately, the Thai Hotels Association expects bookings during the Songkran holiday to decline by 5-10% compared to last year.
Association president Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun said rising travel costs and other concerns are already affecting demand.
Despite this, Thailand still appeals to higher-spending travellers, and the current exchange rate has not yet significantly reduced its attractiveness.
Yuthasak noted that the country should focus more on premium segments such as wellness tourism, business events and digital nomads.
He also pointed out that a slightly weaker baht could improve competitiveness and support growth in visitor numbers.
