Thailand may revise or postpone a proposed outbound travel tax if officials judge current economic conditions unsuitable, Vinit Visessuvanapoom, director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), told the Bangkok Post.
Vinit said officials had not decided whether to implement the levy. The outcome will depend on public feedback and the economic situation when the proposal is assessed, the newspaper reported.
Vinit described the fiscal rationale as broadening government revenue sources amid rising spending obligations and long-term revenue constraints. The proposal is also intended to support fiscal discipline and sustainable budget management, according to the Bangkok Post.
The review must weigh potential revenue against collection expenses and the effects on the public and businesses. Vinit said officials should consider what people can afford and whether the charge could dampen economic activity.
An earlier EconoTimes report on Thailand’s proposed travel charges put the proposed rate at 1,000 baht for nonexempt air departures. It also noted that Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) collects a 1,120-baht passenger service charge at six airports.
The public hearing closes Oct. 29. Feedback and recommendations will be assessed afterward, but the Bangkok Post reported no date for a final decision.
