BANGKOK, March 30 (Xinhua) -- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Monday launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging short-distance, low-energy travel to help the tourism-reliant nation navigate through the global energy crisis.
According to the TAT, the initiative leverages influencer marketing to convert online engagement into real-world travel, laying the foundation for sustainable tourism and distributing revenue to grassroots economies across the country.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool emphasized that the tourism industry is currently facing significant pressure from global energy price volatility, largely fueled by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Thapanee said rising aviation and transport expenses have notably shifted consumer behavior, leading to a decline in long-haul travel and stricter budget controls.
The campaign seeks to turn this challenge into an opportunity to restructure Thai tourism by aligning it with a modern era that prioritizes sustainability, energy conservation, and the true value of travel experiences, she said in a statement.
In addition to the domestic market, the TAT said the campaign also actively targets short-haul international tourists.
A key focus is on visitors from Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, as these neighboring countries provide cross-border travelers to southern Thailand, a region currently undergoing recovery after last year's severe flooding. ■