Core Viewpoint - Thailand's tourism industry is expected to face its first negative growth in nearly three years in 2025, with a projected decline in both foreign tourist arrivals and tourism revenue [1][2]. Group 1: Tourism Projections - The Kasikorn Research Center forecasts that Thailand will receive 34.5 million foreign tourists in 2025, a year-on-year decrease of 2.8% [1]. - Tourism revenue is expected to be approximately 1.62 trillion Thai Baht in 2025, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 3% [1]. Group 2: Contributing Factors - Several negative factors are contributing to the decline in foreign tourist numbers, including concerns over tourism safety, geopolitical tensions, and global economic slowdowns leading to tighter consumer spending [1]. - Increased regional competition, such as Vietnam's introduction of a 10-year long-term visa to attract foreign tourists, is also impacting Thailand's tourism appeal [1]. Group 3: Cost Challenges - Thailand is facing challenges in tourism attractiveness due to rising costs, with average hotel prices in 2024 increasing by 34% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, surpassing the Asian average increase of 28.3% [2]. - The costs for dining, transportation, and other tourist expenditures have also significantly risen, further reducing the appeal for price-sensitive travelers [2]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The Kasikorn Research Center indicates that unless there are positive changes in the global economy and security situation, the recovery path for Thailand's tourism market will remain challenging [2].