Thai hotels have reported combined losses of 173 million baht following the collapse of the German tour firm FTI Group, a sharp increase from the 111 million baht initially estimated in June. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) stated that 179 hotels across the country have been affected, with the majority located in the south, where losses are estimated at 141 million baht. Hotels in Bangkok and the eastern regions have also suffered financial impacts, losing 19 million baht and 8.4 million baht, respectively.
The affected hotels, including local brands and international chains, have been unable to collect payments from FTI Group. Some properties that heavily target European tourists have faced losses exceeding 10 million baht. The THA has submitted a letter to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to seek assistance from the Tourism and Sports Ministry and the German Embassy.
The THA president has urged the new government under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to maintain active tourism promotions, stressing the importance of sustaining momentum as the high season approaches. Despite the challenges, hotel occupancy in the south remains steady at 60%, consistent with last year’s levels during the monsoon season along the Andaman coast.
Southern hoteliers also expressed hope that the new government will continue the former administration’s transport infrastructure projects, especially the development of a new international airport in Phangnga province, which is seen as essential for easing congestion at Phuket International Airport. (NNT)
