A picture of Mekong river in between the Banvang International Border Checkpoint in Muen District, Vientiane Province and the Ban Khok Phai Border Checkpoint in Pak Chom District, Loei Province.
Laos and Thailand are studying a possible new Friendship Bridge linking Vientiane Province with Loei Province. The proposed crossing is now in the feasibility and planning stage.
A picture of the Banvang International Border Checkpoint in Muen District, Vientiane Province and the Ban Khok Phai Border Checkpoint in Pak Chom District, Loei Province locations in Google maps.
The bridge would connect the Banvang International Border Checkpoint in Muen District, Vientiane Province, with the Ban Khok Phai Border Checkpoint in Pak Chom District, Loei Province, according to discussions held during the 21st Laos-Thailand Joint Committee on Border Security and Order meeting in Chiang Khan on 17 September.
If approved, the crossing would give people and businesses another route between the two countries and improve connections between Vientiane Province and northeastern Thailand.
The two sides still need to carry out further feasibility and environmental studies before they can begin formal negotiations, seek cabinet approval and arrange funding. No final construction site or construction schedule has been approved.
Thai authorities examined potential locations for the crossing during a preliminary meeting in Loei on 3 September.
One proposed site is near Khok Phai Village along Thailand’s Highway 211 in Pak Chom district. The proposed bridge would span about 400 meters across the Mekong River.
More Lao-Thai Bridges Planned
The Vientiane-Loei proposal is one of several new Mekong crossings under discussion between the two countries.
On 8 September, Thailand approved THB 1.78 billion (USD 55.4 million) in financial assistance for the Xiengman-Luang Prabang Mekong Bridge. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the bridge targeted to open in 2031.
Laos and Thailand are also discussing a sixth Friendship Bridge linking Salavanh Province with Ubon Ratchathani. The USD 165 million project could begin construction in 2029 and open in 2031.
The plans follow the opening of the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge between Bolikhamxay and Bueng Kan in late 2025, adding another road crossing to the transport network between the two countries.
African swine fever has spread across Laos, with 11,369 pigs dead or culled since the outbreak began in Xayabouly Province in June.
The virus has since reached Phongsaly, Houaphanh, Xaysomboun, Luang Prabang and Vientiane Capital, prompting authorities to impose tighter controls on the movement of pigs and pork products.
Vehicles carrying pigs or pork products must undergo disinfection to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
People who violate the restrictions could face fines or legal action.
As of 15 September, African swine fever had spread across six districts in Xayabouly, killing or forcing the culling of more than 5,400 pigs and causing an estimated LAK 14.9 billion (about USD 665,000) in losses. Authorities have banned pig movements and sales, set up 19 checkpoints, and warned that illegal smuggling and the sale of meat from dead pigs could fuel further spread.
By the following day, the virus had killed nearly 1,000 pigs across four districts in Luang Prabang, causing more than LAK 1.13 billion (USD 50,700) in losses, according to local media reports.
The disease has affected farms across multiple districts and villages, with officials warning that further spread could cause significant economic losses and contribute to local pork shortages.
Containing the Outbreak
Authorities have ordered closer monitoring of pig health.
If farmers find sick or dead pigs, they must immediately report them and send blood samples to the Animal Disease Diagnostic Center for testing by veterinary specialists.
Authorities have also ordered farmers to isolate sick animals and keep them on affected farms rather than moving them elsewhere. Carcasses must be disposed of according to technical procedures to prevent the virus from spreading.
Officials are using disinfectants and other disease-control products, including dewormers, insecticides and deltamethrin, where necessary.
Farmers and traders must now strengthen biosecurity on farms. Advised measures include putting up fences around farms, preventing potentially infected animals from entering, setting up disinfection points at entrances and limiting visitors.
African Swine Fever
African swine fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects domestic and wild pigs. It can cause mortality rates close to 100 percent in infected pigs, although it does not infect humans.
Common signs include high fever, weakness, loss of appetite and red, inflamed or bruised skin. In severe cases, infected pigs can die suddenly.
The disease does not pose a direct health risk to people, but outbreaks can cause major losses for farmers and disrupt local pork supplies.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the affected provinces and strengthen measures to prevent the virus from spreading to more farms.
BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2026 – The 2026 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) opened at Shougang Park in Beijing on September 9. The exhibition area of Beijing Building Industrialization Group Corp., Ltd. drew a large crowd as soon as the venue opened. The Group is recognized as both a High-Tech Enterprise and a Technology Innovation Enterprise. To date, the Group has supplied prefabricated building components for projects covering more than 17 million square meters. Backed by its strong industrial foundation, the Group provides global clients with proven “Chinese solutions.”
At this year’s CIFTIS, under the theme “Smart Modular Manufacturing · Renewing Cities · Connecting the World,” the Group has introduced a more mature portfolio of modular building products focusing on three major application scenarios — overseas markets, urban renewal, and cultural tourism.
The overseas market exhibition area features a “dual-system” strategy comprising a large-module steel-structure integrated housing system and a membrane-shell building system. Among them, the Steel-Structured Modular Building Product, a key offering for overseas markets, has attracted particular attention. Key products include Star Stay, a Mobile Modular Building Product, and its homologous product, Cloud Nest Residence, a Large-scale Modular Housing Product.
This product series offers significant advantages in overseas residential applications. It enables clustered construction of 2-3 story townhouses and detached residences. Factory prefabricated components ensure efficient on-site assembly, and the system can adapt to global climate conditions.
In addition, the urban renewal exhibition area focuses on two core scenarios: Old Town Revitalization and In-situ Demolition-Reconstruction. For the Old Town Revitalization scenario, the Prefabricated Technical System is showcased through a full-scale model unit of a renovated traditional courtyard dwelling. The solution integrates modular furniture and an integrated bathroom unit. In the cultural tourism market exhibition area, space capsules and Catering & Retail Modular Products on display have become popular photo spots. The catering and retail modular unit integrates a kitchen and dining area and is ready to operate on-site upon installation, providing flexible spaces for commercial pop-ups and outdoor markets.
Looking ahead, Beijing Building Industrialization Group Corp., Ltd. will continue to use modular construction as a vehicle to bring proven “Chinese solutions” to more parts of the world.
Hashtag: #BeijingBuildingIndustrializationGroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MUMBAI, India, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, announces that its iconic brand Taj is the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand by Brand Finance UK, for the 5th time. The ‘Hotels 50 2026’annual report by the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy recognises the most valuable and strongest hotel brands across the globe.
TAJ IS WORLD’S STRONGEST LUXURY HOTEL BRAND 2026
Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, said, “For over a century, Taj has been the embodiment of Indian hospitality for the world. The dual honour of being India’s Strongest Brand and the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand, reflects the strength of Taj’s legacy and its continued relevance to travellers across generations and geographies.”
He added, “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our 50,000+ associates, who continue to serve with the values that have shaped our identity.”
As per Brand Finance’s ‘Hotel 50 2026′ report, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5/100 and an AAA+ brand strength rating, TAJ (brand value up 32% to USD878 million) retains its position as the World’s Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand. As luxury travellers increasingly seek authentic and experience-led stays, Taj continues to differentiate itself through its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, personalised hospitality, and timeless luxury.
Mr. David Haigh, Chairman & CEO, Brand Finance, said, “Taj’s continued recognition as the world’s strongest luxury hotel brand is a remarkable achievement. With an exceptional Brand Strength Index score of 93.5, Taj demonstrates how a brand can build global stature while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural identity. Its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, timeless luxury and personalised hospitality continues to create powerful guest affinity and sets an important benchmark for the global luxury hospitality industry.”
The iconic brand Taj has a portfolio of 150 hotels across 14 countries offering a diverse portfolio including grand palaces, city hotels, beach & spa resorts, wildlife safaris and serviced residences.
About The Indian Hotels Company Limited
Indian Hotels Company and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service.
IHCL has a portfolio of 660 hotels including 274 in the pipeline globally across 4 continents, 15 countries and over 300 locations. IHCL is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization.
SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thai travelers are increasingly embracing extended overseas stays, according to accommodation search data from digital travel platform Agoda. For stays of 30 nights or longer, Da Nang, Bali, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Seoul ranked among the most-searched overseas destinations.
The findings highlight how flexible working arrangements are reshaping travel habits, giving people greater freedom to choose when and where they work. As a result, travelers are no longer viewing travel as an escape from work, but instead are integrating work into the lifestyles they want, fueling the growth of longer stays and the rise of “bleisure” travel. These destinations are increasingly attracting month-long stays thanks to their combination of affordability, quality infrastructure, and appealing lifestyle offerings. For Thai travelers exploring the possibility of longer stays abroad, affordability, lifestyle, and reliable infrastructure appear to be just as important as traditional sightseeing attractions. Based on Agoda accommodation searches for stays of 30 nights or longer, Da Nang leads travel interest, reflecting its appeal as a destination that combines low living costs, modern amenities, and easy access to both beaches and city life. Bali remains a perennial favourite among digital nomads, thanks to its established co-working ecosystem and wellness-driven lifestyle, while Tokyo continues to attract strong interest for its world-class infrastructure and seamless connectivity. Kuala Lumpur is also gaining momentum, offering value for money alongside modern urban conveniences. Ho Chi Minh City and Seoul complete the top six, highlighting growing interest in destinations that balance affordability, culture, and quality of life.
The trend is equally evident in searches for long stays in Thailand. Accommodation search data for stays of 30 nights or more shows coastal and island destinations amongst the most popular rankings, reflecting strong interest in places that offer a better work-life balance alongside natural surroundings. Pattaya ranks first, with its combination of beachfront living, urban conveniences, and proximity to Bangkok making it an appealing option for extended stays. Phuket and Koh Samui follow closely behind, supported by strong international connectivity, established expatriate communities, and a broad range of accommodation options, from hotel to villas. Meanwhile, Hua Hin and Cha-am continue to attract attention from travelers seeking a more relaxed seaside lifestyle within easy reach of the capital.
Thailand’s southern islands also feature prominently in long-stay accommodation searches. Krabi, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao, and Koh Lanta all rank among the most searched destinations, underscoring growing interest in locations that combine lifestyle appeal with the flexibility to work remotely. Koh Pha-ngan has evolved beyond its Full Moon Party reputation to become increasingly associated with wellness and digital nomad communities, while Koh Tao has climbed the rankings year-on-year, buoyed by its renowned diving scene and laid-back atmosphere.
Beyond the south, Koh Chang’s jungle-covered landscapes and slower pace of life have helped it emerge as an appealing alternative to Thailand’s more developed island destinations. Khao Lak and Rayong round out the top 15 most-searched destinations, reinforcing a broader trend in long-stay accommodation searches: travelers are increasingly drawn to locales that offer coastal living, lifestyle quality, and the flexibility to blend work and leisure from one location.
Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director, Thailand and Indochina at Agoda said: “The line between work and travel is becoming increasingly blurred as flexible working arrangements give people more freedom over when and where they work. Our data shows Thai travelers searching for longer stays in overseas cities that offer a compelling mix of lifestyle, affordability, and infrastructure, while international travelers exploring extended stays in Thailand continue to gravitate toward the country’s islands and coastal destinations. At Agoda, we’re committed to making it easy for travelers to discover the right stay for this evolving way of traveling, whether they’re working remotely, taking an extended break, or blending both.”
For those looking to reimagine their next trip through a bleisure lens, offers over 6 million holiday properties worldwide, alongside more than 300,000 experiences and over 130,000 flight routes. Whether working remotely for a month or simply extending a stay to experience a destination more deeply, travelers can find everything they need to plan their next extended trip at www.agoda.com or the Agoda app.
A picture of people lining up to travel to Thailand at the Nong Khai Border Checkpoint. (Photo by Laotian Times staff)
UPDATED on 30 September with an official confirmation from the Thai Embassy
Thailand has cut its visa-free tourist stay from 60 days back to 30 days, ending an expanded temporary scheme that had been in place since July 2024.
Foreign nationals holding a Lao-issued work permit, stay permit, or diplomatic identity card are exempt from the new limits on visa-exempt land-border entries and the 30-day visa-free stay.
The change took effect on 15 September and affects travelers from dozens of countries. Lao passport holders, however, are subject to a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between Laos and Thailand.
What Changed on 15 September
Thailand’s old 60-day exemption covered 93 countries and territories, Laos included. That scheme has now been scrapped.
In its place, Thailand re-introduced the 30-day tourist exemption scheme. Thailand also added a 15-day exemption category for Seychelles and Mauritius, and trimmed the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival. The revised measures were published in the Royal Gazette on 31 August and took effect 15 days later. Other visa categories are unaffected.
Separately, under the new rules, travellers from 60 countries and territories, among them Australia, Germany, India, Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, are limited to two visa-exempt land-border entries per calendar year.
This measure aimed at stopping “visa runs,” in which travellers leave Thailand right before their stay expires and immediately re-enter for another free 30 days.
Bilateral Agreement
Laos was never part of the general tourist exemption framework the way most other countries are. Lao citizens have long travelled to Thailand under a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between the two governments, one that has always granted 30 days visa-free.
The reason Lao travellers had been enjoying 60 days was because Laos was also included on the old, broader 93-country list under the expanded 2024 scheme, which offered the longer stay on top of the bilateral arrangement.
Because the two-entry land-border cap is a rule specific to the 60-country scheme, and Lao citizens fall outside that scheme entirely, the limit does not appear to apply to them.
Diplomatic channels indicate the cap is intended to target foreign tourists doing visa runs, and will not apply to Lao nationals or to foreign nationals residing in Laos.
Foreign nationals residing in Laos may also be asked to present a work permit, stay permit or diplomatic identity card issued by Laos when entering Thailand, according to the same diplomatic-channel information, though the Laotian Times was not able to independently confirm these details with local officials.
Confusion at the Border
Still, the rule as written and how it’s being enforced don’t yet appear to be fully in sync. The Laotian Times checked with Lao and Thai immigration officials at the Vientiane-Nong Khai border crossing on 16 September. Officials confirmed the return to a 30-day visa-free stay, but could not specify how the new two-entry limit applies to travellers crossing from Laos, or which categories of entry it covers.
Thai authorities said the review was based on national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and a desire to reduce overlapping visa exemption arrangements. The government also cited concerns about misuse of visa-free stays and a need to simplify Thailand’s visa system.
Best Things to Do in Bangkok This Golden Week: Discover Authentic Thai Cuisine, Luxury Shopping, Cultural Experiences and Iconic Chao Phraya River Attractions at ICONSIAM
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2026 – As Golden Week inspires millions of travelers across Asia to embark on international journeys, ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, is inviting visitors to discover why Bangkok continues to rank among Asia’s most revisited destinations, offering an unrivaled blend of luxury shopping, cultural immersion, world-class gastronomy and distinctive riverside experiences in one destination.
ICONSIAM_ A Global Landmark Along the Chao Phraya River
As travel trends shift from traditional sightseeing toward more immersive and experience-led journeys, destinations that offer a strong sense of place and a diverse range of experiences are increasingly capturing the attention of global travelers. In this landscape, ICONSIAM embodies The Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World, bringing together the country’s cultural heritage, creativity and craftsmanship with international luxury, gastronomy and lifestyle. Set along the historic Chao Phraya River, ICONSIAM offers visitors a distinctive perspective on contemporary Thailand, where the country’s traditions and global influences come together in one iconic waterfront destination.
SOOKSIAM_ Thailand’s first co-creation space to empower local communities from all 77 provinces of Thailand across the nation’s four regions
“Today’s travelers are looking for destinations that offer a deeper connection to the places they visit—experiences that are authentic, memorable and meaningful,” said Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President and Division Head of Marketing at ICONSIAM Company Limited. “Bangkok has a unique ability to inspire repeat visits because there is always another side of the city to discover. As a Global Experiential Destination, ICONSIAM is proud to contribute to this appeal by creating a platform where visitors can experience the many facets of Thailand while enjoying the standards and diversity of a truly international destination. This Golden Week, we look forward to welcoming travelers from around the world and giving them even more reasons to make ICONSIAM a highlight of their Bangkok journey.”
A Culinary Journey Through Thailand and Beyond
Food remains one of the strongest motivations for travelers returning to Bangkok, and ICONSIAM offers a diverse culinary journey that reflects the city’s reputation as one of Asia’s leading gastronomic capitals. At SOOKSIAM on the G Floor, visitors can experience the atmosphere of Thailand’s floating market where visitors can explore the flavors of Thailand’s four regions through authentic cuisine. Beyond SOOKSIAM, ICONSIAM’s culinary offering extends from the acclaimed flavors of Nara Thai Cuisine and ThongSmith to beloved Thai favorites such as After You, Cha Tra Mue and Pang Cha, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the diverse tastes and culinary traditions that continue to make Bangkok a compelling destination for food lovers.
Complementing its retail and dining offerings are ICONSIAM’s signature riverside attractions along the legendary Chao Phraya River. Visitors can enjoy sweeping waterfront views, experience the spectacular ICONIC Multimedia Water Features Show (G Floor), marvel at the iconic Alangkarn Waterfall (6th Floor), and discover art exhibitions, cultural showcases and immersive attractions throughout ICONSIAM.
Discovering Thailand Through Creativity and Craftsmanship
For travelers looking to bring home a meaningful piece of Thailand, ICONCRAFT located on the 4th and 5th floors, offers a carefully curated showcase of contemporary Thai craftsmanship, artisan products and creative enterprises from across the country. The immersive retail concept celebrates local creativity while providing visitors with unique souvenirs and design-led products that reflect Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and evolving creative landscape.
Discover ICONLUXE, Home to Global Fashion Houses, Fine Jewelry and Prestigious Watchmakers
At the center of this offering is ICONLUXE, one of Southeast Asia’s premier luxury hubs, home to an extraordinary collection of internationally renowned luxury houses and flagship boutiques, including Bottega Veneta, Celine, Dior, Gucci, Hermès and Loewe, alongside prestigious jewelry and watchmakers such as Breguet, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chopard, Chaumet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Omega and Patek Philippe. Complementing its luxury offering is an extensive selection of international lifestyle and fashion brands, including ALO, LOFT, MUJI, UNIQLO, ZARA as well as leading Thai wellness and fragrance brands such as Antidotes, PANPURI and THANN. Together, these offerings underscore ICONSIAM’s ability to curate an exceptional mix of international luxury, contemporary lifestyle and distinctive Thai brands, creating a destination that continues to elevate Bangkok’s position as a leading global shopping and lifestyle capital.
A destination of ‘firsts’ flagship store and ‘bests’ that brings immediate global attention to Bangkok
At the heart of Bangkok’s dynamic riverside lies ICONSIAM, a destination of “firsts” and “bests” that continues to attract global attention to Thailand. Recognized as Thailand’s Firstism Leader, ICONSIAM has introduced some of the world’s most sought-after first-to-Thailand brands and experiences, including the country’s first flagship Apple Store, Thailand’s first Blue by Alain Ducasse, a Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse, and the POP MART BANGKOK ICONSIAM FLAGSHIP STORE, and HAUS NOWHERE Bangkok, the first HAUS NOWHERE destination in Southeast Asia, home to TAMBURINS’ first Southeast Asia store and Thailand’s largest Gentle Monster store. Together, these globally recognized brands and flagship experiences continue to reinforce ICONSIAM’s position as a leading destination where international culture, innovation, fashion and lifestyle converge on Bangkok’s iconic Chao Phraya River waterfront.
Exclusive Golden Week Privileges for Tourists visiting ICONSIAM
To make the Golden Week experience even more memorable, ICONSIAM is launching “Discover Thailand at ICONSIAM“, an interactive social media campaign taking place from 25 September to 7 October 2026 at the ONESIAM Global Visitor Lounge (1st Floor). International visitors are invited to share their favorite moments at ICONSIAM, from food and cultural discoveries to shopping finds, local craftsmanship and iconic riverside experiences, by posting at least 2 original photos or 1 video on social media. Participants who complete the challenge will have the opportunity to play a capsule machine and receive complimentary Thai-inspired souvenirs, including ICONSIAM’s exclusive scarf, ICONCRAFT’s Thai-Inspired Mini Bag, handheld electronic fan, bracelet and a Siam Gift Card voucher. The campaign is designed to encourage travelers to explore, experience and share the many dimensions of Thailand that come together at ICONSIAM.
As Bangkok continues to attract travelers seeking meaningful, experience-led journeys, ICONSIAM stands at the heart of the city’s appeal, offering an unparalleled blend of shopping, dining, culture and riverside experiences. This Golden Week, visitors are invited to discover why Bangkok remains one of Asia’s most beloved and revisited destinations, and to experience the very best of modern Thailand in one extraordinary destination.
Thailand restores 30-day visa-free stays, while Lao travelers remain under a separate bilateral agreement and appear exempt from the new land-entry cap.
Thailand has cut its visa-free tourist stay from 60 days back to 30 days, ending an expanded temporary scheme that had been in place since July 2024.
The change took effect on 15 September and applies to travelers from dozens of countries, though Lao passport holders face a distinct set of rules, since Laos operates under its own bilateral visa exemption agreement with Thailand.
What changed on 15 September
Thailand’s old 60-day exemption covered 93 countries and territories, Laos included. That scheme has now been scrapped.
In its place, Thailand re-introduced the 30-day tourist exemption scheme. Thailand also added a 15-day exemption category for Seychelles and Mauritius, and trimmed the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival. Other visa categories are unaffected.
Separately, under the new rules, travelers from 60 countries and territories, among them Australia, Germany, India, Japan, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, are limited to two visa-exempt land-border entries per calendar year.
This measure aimed at stopping “visa runs,” in which travelers leave Thailand right before their stay expires and immediately re-enter for another free 30 days.
Bilateral Agreement
Laos was never part of the general tourist exemption framework the way most other countries are. Lao citizens have long traveled to Thailand under a separate bilateral visa exemption agreement between the two governments, one that has always granted 30 days visa-free.
Lao travelers had been enjoying 60 days only because Laos was also included on the old, broader 93-country list under the expanded 2024 scheme, which offered the longer stay on top of the existing bilateral arrangement.
Now that the expanded scheme has been scrapped, Lao citizens fall back on the bilateral agreement alone, 30 days, the same as before July 2024. The same applies to travelers from China, Hong Kong, Macao, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Timor-Leste and Vietnam, who also hold bilateral arrangements with Thailand and are unaffected by the new land-border entry cap facing the 60 countries on the general list.
Because that two-entry limit is a rule specific to the new 60-country scheme, and Lao citizens fall outside that scheme entirely, it does not appear to apply to them.
Diplomatic channels suggest the cap is intended to target foreign tourists doing visa runs, and will not apply to Lao nationals or to foreign nationals residing in Laos.
Foreign nationals residing in Laos may also be asked to present a work permit, stay permit or diplomatic identity card issued by Laos when entering Thailand, according to the same diplomatic-channel information, though the Laotian Times was not able to independently confirm these details with local officials.
Confusion at the Border
Still, the rule as written and how it’s being enforced don’t yet appear to be fully in sync. The Laotian Times checked with Lao and Thai immigration officials at the Vientiane-Nong Khai border crossing on 16 September. Officials confirmed the return to a 30-day visa-free stay, but could not specify how the new two-entry limit applies to travelers crossing from Laos, or which categories of entry it covers.
Thai authorities said the review was based on national security, tourism and economic interests, reciprocity, and a desire to reduce overlapping visa exemption arrangements. The government also cited concerns about misuse of visa-free stays and a need to simplify Thailand’s visa system.
