Raweewan Sangcha, deputy director of the TAT Phuket office, said the island’s tourism market is currently driven mainly by long-haul travellers. Short-haul travel has been affected by tensions between China and Japan, leading to fewer flights to Japan, reports the Bangkok Post.
As a result, some Chinese tourists who had planned to visit Japan were unable to do so and instead looked for nearby destinations, with Thailand seen as a key alternative.
Ms Raweewan said this Chinese New Year holiday was longer than usual, running from Feb 15-23.
She said Chinese arrivals during the period added momentum to the island’s tourism sector, which continues to show positive signs.
Chinese New Year revenue in Phuket is estimated at around B600 million, with most spending coming from Thai tourists, while foreign visitor demand remains strong.
She said Phuket is also benefiting from seven major events this year, including international conferences such as for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, Interpride activities, and the Electric Daisy Carnival music festival.
Last year, Phuket welcomed a total of 14.1 million visitors, generating tourism revenue of more than B546 billion.
The top five foreign markets were Russia, India, China, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Long-haul markets have recovered by more than 40% compared with pre-Covid-19 levels, led by Russia, the UK, Germany and Kazakhstan.
Short-haul travel has been supported by expanded air routes, including a new Singapore-Phuket service by Thai Lion Air, operating four flights a week, further reflecting Phuket’s position as a leading international destination.