Thailand’s Tourism Stocks Surge in 2025 as Foreign Arrivals Jump Over Five Percent with Strong Market Confidence in the Travel Boom and Thirty-Eight Million Tourists Expected

Published on March 6, 2025

Thailand’s tourism stocks rise in 2025 as foreign arrivals increase over five percent boosting market confidence with thirty-eight million tourists expected.

Thailand’s tourism industry is experiencing an impressive rebound in 2025, fueled by a robust increase in foreign arrivals during the first two months of the year. On March 4, 2025, as of 12:01 PM Bangkok time, stocks of major tourism and hospitality companies edged higher following an official report by Thailand’s Tourism Ministry, which confirmed a 5.9% year-on-year increase in foreign tourist arrivals from January 1 to March 2, 2025.

The rise in tourism numbers has triggered optimism in the stock market, with major tourism-related companies experiencing gains. Investors are regaining confidence in Thailand’s economic recovery, particularly in the tourism sector, which has historically been one of the country’s biggest revenue drivers.

Tourism Stocks on the Rise – AOT, MINT, ERW, and CENTEL Gain Momentum

Following the announcement of higher-than-expected foreign arrivals, Thai tourism stocks responded positively:

• Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (SET: AOT): The share price climbed 1.78% to THB 43.00 per share, reflecting investor confidence in the increasing air traffic and rising passenger numbers at major Thai airports.
• Minor International Public Company Limited (SET: MINT): A key player in Thailand’s hospitality and food service sector, MINT’s stock price rose 0.87% to THB 29.00 per share, driven by positive sentiment around international travel demand.
• The Erawan Group Public Company Limited (SET: ERW): The hospitality-focused stock saw the biggest gain of the day, jumping 2.50% to THB 3.28 per share, as investors anticipated higher occupancy rates in the coming months.
• Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited (SET: CENTEL): The stock edged 0.76% higher to THB 33.00 per share, as expectations of increased hotel bookings and rising revenue per available room (RevPAR) fueled optimism.

These movements indicate that investors are increasingly betting on the strength of Thailand’s hospitality sector, as the demand for travel and accommodation continues to rise post-pandemic.

Thailand Sees 7 Million Foreign Tourists in Early 2025, Led by Chinese Travelers

According to the Tourism Ministry, Thailand welcomed 7 million foreign tourists from January 1 to March 2, 2025, marking a 5.9% increase from the same period last year. Among these visitors, 1.1 million arrivals were from China, solidifying China’s position as Thailand’s largest inbound market.

The return of Chinese tourists is a crucial factor in Thailand’s tourism rebound. With China relaxing outbound travel restrictions and its economy stabilizing, more Chinese travelers are choosing Thailand as a preferred destination for vacations, business, and shopping.

The government has also played a pivotal role in attracting visitors by implementing strategic tourism policies, including visa waivers for select nationalities, improved flight connectivity, and enhanced tourism infrastructure.

Projections for 2025 – Thailand Aims for 38 Million Foreign Visitors

Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) projected in its February 2025 forecast that 38 million foreign tourists would visit Thailand by the end of the year.

This estimate signals strong recovery but remains slightly below the record-breaking 39.8 million visitors Thailand welcomed in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global travel. If the projections hold, 2025 could mark one of the best years for Thailand’s tourism industry in recent history.

Key Drivers Behind the Tourism Surge in 2025

Several factors are contributing to the upward trajectory of Thailand’s tourism industry:

1. Improved Air Connectivity: Airlines have ramped up direct flights between Thailand and major international markets, particularly from China, India, Europe, and the Middle East.
2. Government Support & Visa Policies: Thailand has extended visa waivers for key markets, making it easier for travelers to enter the country. Recent initiatives include visa-free travel agreements with China and Russia.
3. Booming Hospitality Sector: Hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments are witnessing higher occupancy rates, with major brands reporting increased bookings for summer and year-end travel seasons.
4. Surging Chinese Arrivals: As China’s economy stabilizes and travel restrictions ease, Chinese tourists are returning in large numbers, boosting retail and hospitality sectors.
5. Global Tourism Recovery: With the global travel industry bouncing back, Thailand remains a top choice for travelers looking for affordable luxury, cultural experiences, and pristine beaches.

Stock Market Outlook – Will Thailand’s Tourism Stocks Continue Their Rally?

Market analysts believe that Thailand’s tourism stocks still have strong growth potential in 2025, given the continued rise in visitor numbers. Investors are watching key factors such as:

• Monthly tourist arrivals – If Thailand maintains its current growth rate, the country could surpass the 38 million projection by year-end.
• Government stimulus measures – Further incentives for travelers and hospitality businesses could boost the sector’s performance.
• Chinese travel demand – With China being Thailand’s largest tourist source, any surge in outbound Chinese travelers will significantly impact stock prices.

As Thailand gears up for peak travel seasons in Q3 and Q4, analysts expect continued momentum in tourism stocks, particularly in airport operators, hotel groups, and tour operators.

Thailand’s Tourism Industry Poised for Strong Growth in 2025

Thailand’s tourism industry is making a remarkable comeback in 2025, with foreign arrivals increasing by 5.9% in the first two months of the year. The strong growth has boosted tourism stocks, with AOT, MINT, ERW, and CENTEL seeing steady gains.

With 38 million tourists expected by year-end, Thailand is firmly on the path to reclaiming its position as a top global travel destination. As travel demand surges and economic conditions improve, investors and businesses alike are betting on a bright future for Thailand’s tourism sector.

Whether you are an investor eyeing tourism stocks, a business owner in the hospitality industry, or simply a traveler planning your next visit, Thailand’s tourism resurgence in 2025 is shaping up to be a success story worth watching.