TTAA Holds Meeting to Address Impact of Middle East Unrest on Tourism Businesses
On 13 March 2026, Mr. Charoen Wangananont, President of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), together with the Association’s advisors and board Committees, convened a meeting to discuss the impact of the unrest in the Middle East on the tourism business sector.
The meeting was honored by the participation of Mr. Akkarapong Thipmontha, Legal Officer (Professional Level) from the Department of Tourism, along with his delegation. Representatives from leading wholesale travel companies also joined the discussion, including Go 365 Travel, Best International Travel & Agency, Zego Travel, One World Tour & Travel, Grazie Group, Pearl Vacations, World Class Travel & Agency, Hiseas International, and Trafcorp.
The discussion focused on the challenges arising from the ongoing unrest, particularly travel cancellations, increases in fuel surcharges and airport taxes, as well as visa-related issues in cases where travelers are required to reapply for visas due to postponed travel plans.
As an initial guideline, the Department of Tourism recommended that relevant stakeholders refer to the provisions of the Tourism Business and Guide Act, as well as the notification issued by the Tourism Business and Guide Committee regarding the criteria for determining the rate of service fee refunds to tourists.
