Nafis Sadique Shatil
After Taiwan and Nepal, set to Boost Tourism by $2 Billion Annually
Thailand’s upcoming legalization of same-sex marriage, scheduled to take effect in January 2025, is expected to generate a significant economic boost, potentially attracting an additional 4 million tourists each year. According to a report by travel company Agoda, the new law could increase tourism by 10%, adding $2 billion in annual revenue within just two years.
The influx is anticipated to come not only from same-sex couples and their wedding guests but also from the broader LGBTQ community and other global travelers seeking an inclusive destination. Thailand’s inclusive stance is set to attract not just tourists but also expatriate workers who are looking for a welcoming environment. The report, titled “The Economic Impact of Marriage Equality on Thailand’s Tourism Industry,” predicts that the new legislation will create 76,000 full-time jobs in the tourism sector and contribute 0.3% to the country’s GDP.
With this move, Thailand will become the third Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, joining Taiwan, which legalized it in 2019, and Nepal, which introduced limited rights in 2023. The new law also extends critical rights to same-sex couples, including access to adoption, healthcare, and inheritance.
The report draws on data from countries like New Zealand and the U.S., which saw an increase in same-sex weddings following the introduction of marriage equality laws. New Zealand, in particular, experienced a significant rise in same-sex weddings, many of which were from international visitors, especially Australians. Agoda’s analysis also considers factors such as a destination’s appeal, affordability, and accessibility, which make Thailand particularly attractive to travelers.
Furthermore, the report highlights the strategic advantage Thailand has due to its proximity to over 3.6 billion people from countries without marriage equality. Indian LGBTQ+ couples, in particular, are expected to flock to Thailand for weddings and celebrations, further boosting the nation’s tourism sector.
Local organizers are already gearing up for the influx of same-sex couples. Bangkok Pride co-founder Ann Chumaporn shared plans for a mass wedding event on the first day marriage registrations are allowed, with over 300 couples already registered. The Thai government is also planning to host WorldPride, a major global LGBTQ event, which could bring even more attention and tourists to the country.
With “rainbow tourism” valued at $200 billion globally, Thailand is poised to capitalize on this growing market. As the country competes for wedding and tourism dollars, its unique position of inclusivity offers a significant economic opportunity for both the tourism industry and the broader economy.