A Chinese movie "No More Bets" could potentially frighten Chinese visitors away from Thailand, as researchers and data suggest. The film portrays Chinese citizens are tricked into online investments, gambling, and digital money called cryptocurrency in an unnamed Southeast Asian country. A report said criminal groups have forced hundreds of thousands in Southeast Asia into illegal activities.
While the movie topped the box office in China, making over $500 million in its first month, concerns have been raised about its impact on Chinese tourism. At one point in the movie, abducted Chinese travelers are traveling in a small vehicle, which runs under a road sign for "Sukhumvit", a well-known area in Bangkok. Despite experts playing down the lasting effect on tourism to Thailand, there are worries that it may discourage some tourists,particularly those heading to Bangkok.
The movie's success has also caused reactions in neighboring countries. Cambodia banned its showing due to the presence of Khmer language and Myanmar said it tarnishes the country's image.
Vincent Zhuang, a former Robb Report employee, remains positive about Thailand as a tourist destination for Chinese travelers but acknowledges that bad news can easily keep away some possible visitors. With "No More Bets" based on true events, it has added credibility among viewers.
There has been a noticeable decrease in Chinese arrivals to Thailand, with only 2. 2million recorded through August, falling short of the predicted 5 million by the end of 2023. Actually other reasons must be considered though. With the current world economy facing a slowdown, air travel to Thailand remains below pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, a shooting incident in Bangkok in September claimed the lives of three individuals, resulting in60,000 Chinese tourists calling off their plans to visit Thailand .
