BANGKOK — The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is costing Thailand’s tourism sector nearly 3 billion baht ($92.6 million) per month, with over 5,000 hotel rooms cancelled nationwide and major tourist attractions closed, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced.
The border clashes have severely disrupted tourism across seven Thai provinces bordering Cambodia, forcing checkpoint closures and triggering widespread cancellations due to security concerns. Hotels that remain open are largely occupied by aid workers and journalists rather than tourists.
Minister Sorawong described the impact across the affected border provinces:
Ubon Ratchathani: Some hotels have temporarily closed until August 4, 2025. Group travel bookings have been completely cancelled, with 70% of remaining hotel occupancy coming from aid workers and media. Authorities have prepared evacuation plans for over 40,000 residents if needed.
Sisaket: Strict controls at the Chong Sa-Ngam border crossing have slowed tourism on both sides. All group tour bookings were cancelled, with 50% of hotel guests being aid workers and journalists. Cross-border trade continues despite partial disruptions.
Surin: Border hotels have closed or restricted operations, with 80% of group bookings cancelled. The Enduro Race motorbike competition has been postponed. However, Thai visitors are travelling to Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai temples to show support for soldiers and demonstrate national unity.
Buriram: Some border hotels suspended operations while others offer special rates for evacuees. Major attractions including Phanom Rung Historical Park and Muang Tam Sanctuary remain closed, and all Chang International Circuit events have been postponed.
Sa Kaeo: Hotel occupancy continues declining, with 100% cancellations in Aranyaprathet district and 80% in Muang district. Thai authorities have banned gamblers, tourists, and entertainment workers from crossing into Cambodia.
Chanthaburi: Tourism bookings dropped 80%, with cross-border trade slowing due to new checkpoint operating hours. While Cambodian workers continue entering Thailand legally, Cambodia has banned imports of Thai vegetables, fruits, and fresh food.
Trat: Martial law was imposed in Khao Saming district following violent clashes that triggered evacuations in three border districts. Island tourism has also suffered significant cancellations: Koh Chang (10-30%), Koh Mak (20-30%), and Koh Kood (50-60%).
“Should there be unsafe situations involving international tourists, the Ministry of Tourism has provincial-level mechanisms to provide immediate assistance, including local tourism officials and coordination with tourist police,” Sorawong said.
_____
