Oct. 8--The clashes between security forces and People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) have badly affected the tourism industry and destroyed the country's image.

Tourist confidence was shaken after the political conflict turned violent with at least one person killed and about 190 injured near Parliament.

Porntip Hirunkate, secretary-general of the Tourism Council of Thailand, said reports by foreign media about the fresh clashes had hurt the country's tourism industry, which had already been hit hard by the world financial crisis.

The clashes, if prolonged, would result in losses of at least 10 billion baht in tourism revenue in the remaining three months. Twenty-three countries may retain their travel advisory warnings against visits to the country.

Apichart Sankary, president of the Association of Thailand Travel Agents, said it was premature to evaluate the losses and damages done to the Thai tourism industry after the violence.

"Don't ask me about the country's image. It's gone already in the eyes of foreigners. What I can do now is pray the situation will improve as soon as possible. Those who really love the nation should stop this violence," he said.

According to Tourism Authority of Thailand governor Phornsiri Manoharn, following the clashes the TAT called an urgent meeting of all deputies and senior officials to assess the situation and to immediately explain the clashes to the TAT's 22 overseas offices.

Mrs Phornsiri insisted the impact on tourism from the latest clashes was likely insignificant, as they happened only in limited areas near Government House, the PAD's stronghold.

The affected area spanned only three square kilometres, with other areas in Bangkok unaffected, she said.

However, she said the agency had yet to estimate the impact on the incoming high season, and pledged to monitor closely the situation.

Natwut Amornvivat, president of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), said the violence would hurt the meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition (Mice) market. But assessing possible damage is less important than acting to revive the business.

"The Asian market, which accounts for 80 percent of total Mice visitors in Thailand, will easily panic," he said.

"From now on, we must work harder and harder to promote the country's image and do our best to keep our target growth. The TCEB is uncertain when the Mice businesses will return to normal but we will try our best."

The TCEB yesterday sent a statement about the current situation to embassies and event organisers overseas.

"More importantly, we must inform tourists that the clash area is only one spot in Bangkok and far from shopping, commercial areas, and exhibition and convention centres," Mr Natwut said.

The TCEB may reduce its Mice target of 1.2 million visitors next year due to the global recession and political turmoil.

By Chadamas Chinmaneevong and Chatrudee Theparat

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