As Thailand prepares to legalise same-sex marriage in 2025, the country anticipates an influx of international visitors and significant economic benefits, positioning itself as a leading destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.
Thailand is preparing for a transformative shift in its tourism landscape as it moves towards the legalisation of same-sex marriage, set to take effect on January 22, 2025. This landmark legislation is forecasted to attract an additional 4 million international visitors annually, generating nearly $2 billion in tourism revenue within the first two years of implementation, as outlined in a recent study by Agoda, a prominent digital travel platform. The report, titled The Economic Impact of Marriage Equality on Thailand’s Tourism Industry, highlights the significant economic benefits expected from this legislative change, including a projected increase of 0.3% in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
As Thailand becomes the first Southeast Asian nation to legalise same-sex marriage, it joins Taiwan and Nepal as the third country in Asia to take this step. The anticipated roll-out promises a wealth of economic opportunities, with key areas of revenue expected to see considerable boosts. The study forecasts $0.7 billion for accommodations, $0.4 billion for food and beverages, $0.4 billion for retail, and contributions from domestic transportation and entertainment sectors collectively amounting to $0.4 billion. Additionally, it is projected that this legal change will create 152,000 full-time equivalent jobs, equally distributed across the tourism sector and related industries.
Timothy Hughes, Vice President of Corporate Development at Agoda and Executive Sponsor for Agoda Pride, articulated the potential impact, stating, “The LGBTQIA+ community represents a significant economic force with a strong appetite for travel. Thailand has long been a popular destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, and this legislation will further solidify its reputation as a welcoming and inclusive option.” This enhancement of Thailand’s tourism appeal is expected to also attract LGBTQIA+ couples from neighbouring countries for destination weddings, which will further boost the hospitality, catering, and entertainment sectors.
The implications of this legislative change are not merely economic; they also carry substantial cultural significance. Events like WorldPride could be hosted in Thailand, echoing the influence that such gatherings have on elevating LGBTQIA+ tourism. Waaddao Chumaporn, President of Naruemit Pride and Organizer of Bangkok Pride Festival 2024, remarked on the broader societal benefits, stating, “The Marriage Equality Act is a monumental step forward, advancing equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community while reinforcing Thailand’s reputation as an inclusive and safe destination.”
Henry Koh, Executive Director of ILGA Asia, underscored the importance of safety in attracting LGBTQIA+ travellers. He noted that over half of LGBTQIA+ individuals from the Asia-Pacific region experience discrimination while travelling. “Thailand’s legislative change offers a secure and welcoming environment, providing opportunities such as destination weddings that may be unavailable elsewhere,” he explained.
The report, developed in partnership with public policy consultancy Access Partnership, gathered data that underscores the trend of increased tourism following the adoption of marriage equality laws. Findings revealed that countries that have enacted similar legislation typically see a 10% rise in international visitors within two years. Notably, 43% of LGBTQIA+ travellers tend to avoid destinations perceived as unsupportive of LGBTQIA+ rights, further highlighting the necessity for inclusivity in attracting this market segment.
With the legalisation of same-sex marriage, Thailand is set to enhance its standing as a global leader in inclusivity and diversity, translating this commitment into economic growth and a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ tourists. The developments to come over the next couple of years indicate a significant shift in the region’s tourism dynamics, positioning Thailand as a forerunner in embracing equal rights and catering to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Photo Credit: Rungroj Yongrit/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock