16-8-2023 (BANGKOK) In a strategic move to enhance its service offerings and cater to the preferences of Chinese and South Korean tourists, Grab Thailand is forging partnerships with renowned payment platforms Alipay and Kakao Pay. These collaborations seek to elevate the tourism experience for visitors from these countries, reflecting Grab’s commitment to meet the evolving needs of diverse international travellers.
With Thailand’s tourism industry witnessing a resurgence in the wake of the country’s reopening, Grab is capitalizing on the momentum by focusing on Chinese tourists as a pivotal market. Worachat Luxkanalode, country head of Grab Thailand, emphasized the importance of aligning with Alipay, China’s leading digital wallet and payment system with over a billion users. The collaboration aims to provide seamless payment integration through Alipay for various Grab services.
Similarly, Grab is partnering with Kakao Pay to offer convenient payment options to South Korean tourists exploring Thailand. The introduction of these payment methods is slated for gradual implementation, with full functionality anticipated by the third quarter of this year.
The remarkable recovery of the Thai tourism sector since its reopening is evident in the influx of over 12 million visitors during the first half of 2023. Notably, Chinese tourists have contributed significantly to this resurgence, surpassing 1.4 million arrivals in the initial six months. This surge is paralleled by a 38% increase in rides taken by Chinese users of Grab’s mobility services in the second quarter, reflecting the platform’s growing appeal.
Recognizing the significance of Chinese visitors, Grab conducted an insightful survey involving 3,000 residents of major Chinese cities. The study illuminated that Thailand holds the strongest allure among Southeast Asian destinations, captivating 71% of respondents. Following Thailand, Singapore (66%) and Malaysia (53%) also emerged as attractive options.
For Chinese travellers, sightseeing and leisure pursuits are the primary motivations (97%) for visiting Thailand. Business trips (2%) and visits to friends and family (1%) constitute other reasons. The preferred mode of travel is in small groups of 2-4 individuals (81%), with only 10% opting for larger groups and 9% favouring solo travel.
Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Koh Samui stand out as the top five destinations for Chinese tourists within Thailand. These visitors typically plan an average stay of seven days, allocating an approximate budget of 103,060 baht for expenses.
Elaborating on Grab’s strategic focus, Mr Worachat noted, “Chinese tourists are the key focus and one of the strategic target markets for Grab this year.” The platform’s versatility, spanning ride-hailing to delivery services, coupled with its commitment to safety and pricing transparency, contributes to its popularity among Chinese tourists.
The embrace of extensive service coverage across multiple countries, coupled with strategic initiatives such as online marketing campaigns, has propelled Grab’s reputation among Chinese visitors. These efforts are poised to amplify Grab’s presence in the tourism landscape, fostering positive word-of-mouth endorsements and solidifying its role as a reliable partner for tourists worldwide.
