The Briefing Tourist numbers crash in Thailand and final campaigning in New York’s mayoral race
Nov 3, 2025
James Chambers, Monocle's Asia editor based in Bangkok, addresses the sharp decline in Thailand's tourism, focusing on the loss of Chinese visitors and the potential for recovery through US connectivity. He shares insights on how cultural events like Loy Krathong remain vital despite royal mourning. Ewan Potts, Bloomberg journalist, highlights a tech borrowing boom as companies like Alphabet seek funds for AI, while US markets showcase impressive rebounds. The discussion also touches on the upcoming New York mayoral race and youth engagement in politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
China Shortfall Drives Thailand's Tourism Gap
- Thailand's tourism recovery lags pre-COVID levels, with projected arrivals far short of 40 million.
- Chinese visitor numbers have plunged and may not reach 5 million this year, hitting many businesses beyond hotels.
China's Domestic Push Keeps Tourists Home
- China's policy and economic measures are encouraging domestic travel, reducing outbound tourism.
- External marketing by Thailand has limited effect while Chinese incentives keep tourists at home.
A Year Of Compounding Shocks
- James lists a sequence of events this year that dented Thailand's appeal: kidnapping scare, earthquake, border war, strong baht and rainy season.
- He says the combined effect made 2025 a particularly terrible year for Thai tourism morale.
