Thailand and China Form Joint Working Group on Tourist Safety Amid Scam Concerns

Key summary

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul announced plans for a joint working group between Thailand and China to protect tourists and combat scams targeting Chinese nationals, following talks held on November 5, 2026. The initiative aims to exchange information and coordinate assistance for travelers, addressing concerns that have led to a 13.57% year-on-year drop in Chinese arrivals to 308,942 in October—the first decline since February. Discussions between Minister Surasak and Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jianwei emphasized China's stance against its citizens breaking Thai laws and Thailand's commitment to take firm action. The working group will involve administrative authorities to distinguish legitimate tourists from those involved in unlawful activities, particularly regarding illegal border crossings into Myanmar's Myawaddy region facilitated by scam networks. While voluntary crossings are difficult to identify at checkpoints, cases involving coercion or deception allow for immediate intervention. The Thai government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, intends to reinforce its message on tourist safety during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen from November 18–19, highlighting readiness to welcome visitors and strengthen enforcement measures.