True Corporation partners with TAT to boost Thailand tourism

True Corporation, alongside the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has launched the True Nationwide, For Everyone initiative, designed to provide benefits and perks to both Thai and international tourists throughout their travels. This initiative is in line with the government’s vision to position Thailand as a leading tourism destination by 2024, with the goal of generating over 3 trillion baht in revenue.

Manat Manavutiveth, Chief Executive of True Corporation, emphasized the pivotal role of digital technology in driving Thailand’s tourism industry forward. He highlighted the rising trend of digital nomadism, where individuals work remotely from various locations at flexible hours.

The collaboration between True Corporation and TAT ensures seamless Internet connectivity and showcases Thailand’s tourist attractions, showcasing the strength of True’s network coverage. Manat disclosed that during the first quarter, the country welcomed 9.3 million international tourists, with 65% utilizing mobile phone services through True’s SIM cards and roaming service.

This figure exceeded the initial target of 9 million for the first quarter, with an anticipated total of 36 million foreign tourists throughout the year.

The campaign offers tourists a range of privileges, including complimentary meals and beverages at nine airports nationwide, free accident insurance, discounts at popular cafes and restaurants, and golf cart transfers from aircraft to immigration areas, among other exclusive benefits from partner establishments nationwide.

A special privileges program, a collaborative effort between TAT and True, promotes experiential tourism. One such initiative is the 365 Days of Coffee Lovers‘ Journey activity, which highlights tourism in secondary cities through the diverse coffee flavors unique to each community.

Digital technology plays a crucial role in driving transformation across various sectors, according to the World Bank. In the tourism sector specifically, digital technology presents significant opportunities for Thailand’s economic growth.

Thailand’s telecommunications infrastructure recently ranked fifth globally, signaling the country’s readiness to leverage digital technology for economic development and tourism enhancement.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool outlined the agency’s objectives, aiming to attract high-spending tourists, establish robust supply chains with industry partners to accommodate high-quality tourist groups, and ensure equitable distribution of income. The initiative is expected to generate over 3 trillion baht in revenue, with a significant portion coming from international tourists.

Prathet Tankuranun, True’s Chief Technology Officer, highlighted the benefits of the merger between True Corporation and Total Access Communication (DTAC), which has resulted in enhanced network quality and experience. This includes a modernized and upgraded network, increased bandwidth for 4G and 5G, expanded 5G coverage, improved network monitoring and analysis capabilities, and greater engineering expertise.

True now boasts 99% coverage for its 4G service nationwide and 90% coverage for 5G, with further expansion expected to reach 95% by 2025.