Boost for Pattaya? – Local tourism hopes rise as co-pay scheme promises up to 3,000 baht/night subsidies and digital coupons. (Photo – Pattaya Beach Road, Thailand) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand gears up for the return of the much-anticipated ‘Co-Pay Domestic Tourism Campaign’, set to open for registration in mid-June 2025, tourism stakeholders in Pattaya are eyeing a potential boost from the government-backed stimulus. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed on June 10 that the scheme will officially launch in July 2025, offering 500,000 co-pay entitlements exclusively for Thai citizens. Although this is a reduction from the originally planned one million, the revised budget of 1.78 billion baht has been partially reallocated to support inbound international tourism through both scheduled and charter flights. The campaign will subsidize 50% of spending on accommodations and food at participating hotels and restaurants — but excludes airfare support this time. Thai citizens will be eligible for up to five nights of subsidies, capped at 3,000 baht per room per night, along with digital coupons redeemable at restaurants, souvenir shops, OTOP stores, and tourist attractions. With its wide array of hotels, beachfront attractions, and proximity to Bangkok, Pattaya is well-positioned to benefit from this campaign — especially in attracting domestic tourists seeking affordable short trips. As the scheme prioritizes “secondary cities” with higher co-pay percentages (50% government, 50% citizen), Pattaya’s classification could impact how much support travelers receive. If Pattaya qualifies as a “major city,” the government co-pay drops to 40%, but if it’s considered a secondary or “emerging” destination, the 50% subsidy applies — a decision still pending final clarification. The city could also benefit under the weekday travel incentive, where those booking between Monday and Friday receive the full 50% government subsidy. Given that Pattaya’s weekends are already strong with Bangkokians, this weekday push could help balance tourist flow and support mid-week businesses. Moreover, local tourism operators, restaurants, and OTOP shops stand to gain from digital coupon usage, driving spending beyond just hotel rooms. Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirms July 2025 launch of co-pay scheme with 500,000 entitlements for Thai citizens only. Key Points: -Registration begins mid-June 2025 via the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). -Launch expected in July 2025 with 500,000 available entitlements. -Co-pay covers 40–50% of accommodation and dining; no airfare support. -Eligible spending: up to 3,000 baht per room per night, 5 nights/person. -Digital coupons will further support local businesses. If effectively promoted and well-managed, the campaign could help reinvigorate domestic travel to Pattaya, especially during the green season when international arrivals slow down. Local businesses are encouraged to register promptly to take full advantage of the scheme. In short: Yes, Pattaya is likely to benefit — but how much depends on final policy details, destination classification, and readiness of local businesses to tap into this renewed domestic travel push.