Bangkok: The government has initiated the "Check-in, Fun, Wow, East X Northeast" project to boost tourism in the Thai-Cambodian border region. The initiative, which begins on November 15, aims to support travel and accommodation costs, potentially generating over 90 million baht in revenue.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ayrin Phanrit, Deputy Government Spokesperson, disclosed that the project arises from efforts to counter the adverse economic and social impacts of border disputes. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the government have directed relevant agencies to expedite the recovery and development of the local economy by leveraging tourism as a crucial mechanism to drive the grassroots economy. The project involves collaboration with partners in the tourism industry, including both government and private sectors, to promote group tours through travel agencies. The goal is to encourage travel across the seven Thai-Cambodian border provinces and support tourism operators and stakeholders within the tourism industry chain.
Ms. Aiyarin further explained that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports are spearheading efforts to stimulate the border tourism economy under the "Check-in Fin Wow East X Northeast" project. The initiative covers seven provinces: Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, Buriram, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat. TAT will provide travel expense support, based on specific criteria and conditions, for itineraries involving interprovincial travel with at least one overnight stay (300 baht per night) within these provinces. The primary objective is to instill travel confidence among Thai and international tourists, revitalize the local economy, and distribute income to local communities. The project is set to generate at least 90 million baht in local revenue through travel packages, accommodations, transportation, food, souvenirs, and local services. Consequently, it will benefit tour operators, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and community shops, while creating sustain ed employment in the service and tourism sectors.
The "Check-in Fin Wow East X Northeast" project will be available for travel starting November 15, 2025, until the 10,000 quota is filled. The initiative aims to drive the border economy, create new marketing opportunities, and rejuvenate the Thai tourism sector. Tour operators interested in participating can contact the Tourism Council of Thailand for further information and support applications or inquire at 1672 Travel Buddy.