BANGKOK — Thailand’s tourism sector faces severe disruption as border tensions with Cambodia continue to escalate, with 100% booking cancellations reported in several provinces.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon revealed that border tensions since early May 2025 have severely impacted domestic tourism, with travelers avoiding trips due to safety concerns.
Sa Kaeo province saw 100% cancellation of accommodation bookings in Aranyaprathet district, with 80% cancellations in city areas. Chanthaburi and border areas of Trat province experienced similar 80-100% cancellation rates. Island destinations also suffered: Koh Chang (10-30% cancellations), Koh Mak (20-30%), and Koh Kood (50-60%).
Northeastern provinces bore the brunt of cancellations. Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, and Surin provinces all reported 100% group tour cancellations, while Buriram saw 70% accommodation cancellations. Major attractions including Phanom Rung Historical Park closed, and events at Chang International Circuit were postponed.
The crisis extends beyond border regions. Thianprasit Chaiphatranant, President of the Thai Hotels Association, reported that 24 member hotels across nine provinces lost 5,266 room bookings since July 23rd. Chiang Mai suffered the highest cancellations (2,089 rooms), followed by Bangkok (1,863 rooms) and Chonburi (668 rooms).
Asian tourists accounted for 47% of cancellations, Thai tourists 35%, Europeans 11.8%, and Middle Eastern visitors 5.8%. “Border provinces face greater impact than others. We hope the unrest resolves quickly to minimize tourism damage,” Thianprasit said.
TAT offices have issued danger zone advisories and established tourist assistance centers with special safety measures coordinated by government agencies and the Royal Thai Army.
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