Bangkok (VNA) - The Thai government has expressed its confidence that tourism and spending during the upcom𒀰ing Songkran festival will remain upbeat.

Deputy government spokesman Anukul Prueksanusak has cited findings from a recent consumer behaviour survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, which said spending during Songkran is projected to increase by 4.5% to 134 billion THB (3.8 billion USD), up from last year’s 129 billion THB. This figure would mark the highest level seen since 2020 with 69 billion THB, the first year when Thailand and the world were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey also showed that only 5% of respondents, the lowest since 2016, planned to cut back on their spending, while 72.1% have travel plans in place during the Songkran holiday, the highest percentage since 2019, reflecting growing consumer confidence and a steady recovery in the tourism sector. Regarding changes in travellers’ spending plans after the earthquake fallout, Anukul noted that the majority of respondents, or 71.7%, said there would be no change, 17.1% planned to increase spending, and 11.2% intended to reduce it. Most respondents indicated they would continue with their usual Songkran activities but would avoid indoor events or venues in high-rise buildings. Anukul said people can travel with confidence during Songkran this year. The government has instructed relevant agencies to expedite safety inspections of hotels, facilities at major tourist attractions, and the structures of buildings in high-risk areas following the earthquake in Myanmar, which also affected Thailand, to instill confidence in both Thai and international tourists. Security agencies are working with tourism authorities to facilitate tourists and ensure safety at destinations nationwide, while communicating useful information to boost public confidence in travelling safely throughout the festival period, he noted./.