Bangkok: The Thai Association of Travel Agents (ATTA) has expressed concerns regarding the anticipated growth in Chinese tourism during the Chinese New Year period in 2026, as the mood is dampened by the Nipah virus outbreak in India.

According to Thai News Agency, the ATTA estimates that the overall tourism growth during this festive period will be lower than initially expected. This comes in light of the Nipah virus outbreak news, which has adversely affected confidence in the Chinese market. Adit Chairattananon, Secretary-General of ATTA, mentioned that while a 20% increase in Chinese tourists was initially anticipated compared to last year, the reality is that daily travel figures have stabilized. There have only been a few advance cancellations, but the situation requires close monitoring.

Currently, the average number of Chinese tourists entering Thailand stands at about 13,000-14,000 per day, a decrease from a peak of 17,000-18,000 per day. During the Chinese New Year period, if this number rises to 14,000-16,000 per day, it would still be slightly higher than the previous year but below expectations. The Chinese market remains sensitive to epidemic news, having experienced both SARS and COVID-19. This is despite India's announcement of controlling the outbreaks.

ATTA has urged the government to accelerate proactive communication to restore confidence, emphasizing that flights from India did not originate from affected areas, India has the disease under control, and Thailand has not detected any Nipah virus outbreaks. Strict surveillance measures are in place. Additionally, ATTA has requested the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to intensify communication efforts with the Chinese market, even during the government transition, to avoid disruptions similar to those seen in previous years before the Lunar New Year.