Since the outbreak, tourism operators in Bangkok’s commercial district have noticed a sudden drop in customers. The Erawan Shrine on Ratchadamri Road, which is usually crowded with tourists, was nearly deserted on Tuesday .
“It was a massive impact. In February 2020, our currently-operated portfolio hotels – 10 properties – overall had 28 per cent less revenue from the budgeted figure. This is a very painful figure,” he said. An owner sits inside her shop in Bangkok's commercial district, which has seen fewer tourists since the COVID-19 outbreak.
According to the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the COVID-19 outbreak has affected the Consumer Confidence Index, which came down from 68.3 points in December last year to 54.9 points in January.The Chamber’s January report stated: “Concern over the outbreak of COVID19 from China has affected people’s life, businesses and the future of Thailand’s economic situation, especially its tourism sector.’’