In what is considered to be a landmark move, Thailand is planning on legalising same-sex marriage as of January 2025. A decision that will not just guarantee equal rights for people of all sexual orientations but that could also mean a big boost for its tourism industry.
Following the announcement of the new law, travel platform Agoda has carried out a new study looking at its consequences for the country’s tourism industry. With 30 million annual visitors resulting in approximately $60 billon in revenues, the Thai economy largely depends on tourists.
According to Agoda, the marriage equality legislation could deliver an extra 4 million international vistors per year and increase tourism revenues by approximately $2 billion annually within two years of its enactment. The global “rainbow tourism market” is valued at $200 billion a year and as the first jurisdiction in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia (after Taiwan and Nepal) to legalise same sex marriage, Thailand could very well capture a good slice of that market.
“The enactment of the Marriage Equality Act marks a monumental step forward for Thailand, not only in advancing equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community but also in solidifying the nation’s reputation as a truly inclusive and safe destination,” said Waaddao Chumaporn, President and Founder of Naruemit Pride and Organizer of Bangkok Pride Festival 2024. “By embracing diversity and ensuring that all couples, regardless of gender or orientation, have equal rights in marriage, Thailand demonstrates its leadership in championing progress and human dignity. We believe this bold move will inspire deeper trust, attract more visitors, and encourage meaningful engagement with our vibrant culture.”
“The LGBTQIA+ community is a powerful economic force with a strong appetite for travel. While already a popular destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, this move is expected to further solidify Thailand’s reputation as an inclusive holiday option. At Agoda, we are excited to see the substantive economic impact that the influx of travellers will have on local businesses and communities. We will continue working with our local partners to deliver exceptional travel experiences for this community”, said Timothy Hughes, Vice President of Corporate Development at Agoda and Executive Sponsor for Agoda Pride.
Aside from regular travel, the decision could also boost the local wedding industry through destination wedding venues. Still according to the study, more generally speaking, the new law could support an additional 152,000 jobs, 76,000 of which would lie directly within the tourism industry. Thailand’s gross domestic product could increase by 0.3%.
