Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has introduced a nationwide set of safety measures aimed at improving the travel experience and restoring international tourist confidence, following a recent wave of online concerns about visitor safety and unlicensed tour operators.
The initiative was announced by Permanent Secretary Natreeya Taweewong on May 28, 2025, amid growing attention on social media to alleged incidents involving tourists. While officials claim that many of the circulating posts are inaccurate or misleading, the government is responding with a broad inter-agency approach to ensure a more secure and transparent travel environment.
The new strategy, developed in coordination with the military, police, and civil authorities, encompasses each stage of a tourist’s journey — from arrival at the airport to visits at major attractions. Key measures include enhanced baggage protection with the help of airlines and airport staff, expedited immigration processing, transparent transportation pricing, and the visible presence of uniformed personnel and volunteers at popular destinations.
Additional support for tourists will be available via 24-hour patrol services, a national hotline, and a dedicated mobile application for emergency assistance or information requests.
Addressing recent rumors of abductions, the ministry stated that no confirmed cases involving tourists have been reported. Officials clarified that individuals mentioned in online claims were only transiting through Thailand and not targeted while visiting. Authorities continue to stress that Thailand remains a safe and welcoming destination.
To counter ongoing issues with inflated prices and inconsistent service, the government is tightening regulations on pricing. Measures include cracking down on overcharging, introducing more flights to manage fare levels, and working with the Ministry of Transport to lower travel costs through tax adjustments. Monitoring systems are being used to track compliance and uphold service quality.
The government has also launched a crackdown on illegal tour businesses and unlicensed guides. A new multi-agency task force — the Joint Operations Center for Resolving Nominee Tour Business Problems — has been formed to investigate such operations. The task force includes officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Department of Business Development, Department of Special Investigation, Tourist Police Bureau, and the Immigration Bureau.