According to the Bangkok Post, tourism operators in Thailand have called on the government to discuss a long-term visa waiver program between Thailand and India, as the South Asian country is expected to become the world's third largest economy by 2027.

Somsong Sachaphimukh, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, said the current temporary visa exemption for Indians has helped boost the tourism market. The positive momentum will continue this year as the Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to extend the program for another two years after the current program ends on May 10.

As of February 18, the Indian market provided the fifth largest number of visitors to Thailand with 258,269 tourist arrivals. India is expected to surpass Germany to become the world's third largest economy by 2027, after Germany recently replaced Japan in the third position.

HA TRANG