PATTAYA, Thailand — Tourism in Pattaya continues to operate normally, despite heightened tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border, a strengthening Thai baht, and political uncertainties that are expected to slow economic growth next year.
Thanet Supornsaharangsri, president of the Chonburi Tourism Federation, said on December 24 that Pattaya has not yet experienced direct impacts from the border situation. However, nearby provinces such as Chanthaburi and Trat — particularly Koh Chang — have seen almost total cancellations of accommodation bookings. Some tourists have redirected their travel plans to Pattaya instead.
“Foreign travelers often view Thailand as a whole,” Thanet explained. “News about security or military activity, even far from Pattaya, can affect their confidence and decision-making.”
The strong Thai baht, trading above 31 baht per U.S. dollar — the highest in 4–5 years — has also affected tourist spending. European and Russian visitors, in particular, face 8–10% higher costs, reducing overall tourism revenue. The tourism sector hopes that the border situation will stabilize quickly to avoid discouraging long-distance travelers who plan trips one to three months in advance.
Meanwhile, Worawan Saengsanit, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Finance, said Thailand’s economy is projected to slow to around 2.0% growth in 2026. He also warned that the 2027 budget may be delayed by at least three months due to the recent dissolution of the parliament.
Worawan noted that the first quarter of 2026 is particularly uncertain, as the caretaker government cannot implement certain economic stimulus measures requiring approval from the incoming administration, including the “Khon La Khrueng Plus” program and personnel appointments.
However, the scheduled general election on February 8, 2026, could provide a temporary boost to economic sentiment in early 2026. Key priorities for the coming year will include promoting domestic investment, accelerating infrastructure development, and creating new growth engines to drive Thailand’s long-term economic expansion.
