Bangkok (People's Daily) - The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Alipay (Hangzhou) Information Technology signed a Letter of Intent (LoI), on Monday to form a long-term strategic partnership that offers Chinese tourists more product and service options while visiting the kingdom. The signing was treated as a new initiative to offers better experiences for Chinese tourists visiting Thailand.

The signing ceremony between TAT and Alipay was held on May 27. (Photos: Zhao Yipu/People's Daily app)

TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said "Thailand was the most popular destination for Chinese travelers in 2018 according to a report by the China Tourism Academy and Ctrip. Last year, Thailand welcomed over 10.5 million visitors from China (out of 38 million total arrivals), making it the number one source market for the country. TAT is constantly looking for ways to strengthen tourism products and services that cater to Chinese visitors." 

The two sides sign the Letter of Intent.

"The LoI signifies the commitment between both parties to forge a long-lasting strategic partnership. This cooperation in the field of tourism will facilitate Chinese tourists to access more options and enjoy better services while raising awareness among the Chinese about the ease of traveling to and around Thailand," Yuthasak said.

Alipay is the world’s largest mobile and online payment platform operated by Ant Financial Services Group, with over 900 million members. It is currently in talks with relevant Thai government agencies, including TAT, to enhance Chinese tourists’ overall experience in Thailand. Alipay will provide more efficient and convenient payment method via its platform and help Thai local merchants improve their services and better supporting the needs of the Chinese travellers. 

Chinese tourists spent on average 55,579 Baht per person per trip in 2018, up 5.1% year-on-year, generating 586,471 million Baht revenue (up 12.6%).