Thailand is capturing the spotlight as a premier destination for international film productions, with the United States, South Korea, and other global players increasingly selecting the nation’s diverse landscapes for their cinematic ventures. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has been instrumental in transforming the film industry into a powerful driver of tourism and economic growth. By combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and state-of-the-art production support, Thailand is solidifying its reputation as Asia’s film tourism hub.
Between January and July 2025 alone, Thailand welcomed 322 foreign film projects, contributing over 3.33 billion baht to the economy. This surge highlights the nation’s growing appeal to filmmakers and its strategic role in boosting both tourism and creative industries.
Streamlined Film Support
A core part of Thailand’s success lies in its streamlined support system for filmmakers. The TAT, working alongside the Department of Tourism and local authorities, ensures that international film crews have access to smooth operational processes, from securing permits to handling logistics.
Over the years, Thailand has hosted a variety of globally recognized productions. Fast & Furious 9 brought Krabi, Phang Nga, and Surat Thani onto cinema screens in 2019, while The White Lotus: Season 3 showcased Thai resorts and coastal landscapes in 2024. More recently, Jurassic World: Rebirth was filmed across Krabi, Trang, and Phang Nga, demonstrating the country’s versatility in providing both exotic natural backdrops and modern urban settings.
This infrastructure and collaborative spirit make Thailand one of the most filmmaker-friendly destinations in Asia.
Attractive Filming Incentives
To further elevate its appeal, Thailand has enhanced its cash rebate program for foreign productions. Since January 2025, the government has offered rebates ranging from 15% to 30% of production costs, with no upper limit. This competitive scheme makes Thailand particularly attractive for large-scale projects requiring significant investment in local services, talent, and technical resources.
Such incentives not only reduce costs for international studios but also increase local employment, stimulate spending in regional communities, and generate long-term visibility for the country’s tourism sector.
The Location Thailand Campaign
The TAT’s flagship “Location Thailand” campaign strategically promotes filming destinations as tourist attractions. By capitalizing on the global popularity of movies and series, the initiative inspires fans to visit the actual filming sites, a phenomenon known as film-induced tourism.
Through collaborations with international studios, destinations like Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga are being positioned as must-visit travel experiences. Beyond major hubs, the campaign also promotes secondary destinations, helping distribute tourism benefits more evenly across the nation.
TAT has also organized familiarization trips for global producers and directors to explore untapped locations, further showcasing Thailand’s capacity for diverse genres ranging from action blockbusters to romantic dramas.
Technology-Driven Tourism Experiences
Innovation plays a crucial role in enhancing Thailand’s film tourism experience. GeoFencing technology provides travelers with real-time notifications about attractions and behind-the-scenes filming details. Augmented reality (AR) filters allow visitors to virtually immerse themselves in iconic movie scenes, creating a dynamic and interactive journey.
These technologies not only enrich visitor engagement but also strengthen Thailand’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination that blends tradition with modernity.
Sustainable Tourism and Long-Term Impact
Sustainability remains central to Thailand’s tourism policies. The TAT collaborates with hotels, online travel agencies, and local communities to design film-inspired travel packages, ensuring that tourism growth aligns with cultural preservation and environmental responsibility. Infrastructure in filming areas is being upgraded to accommodate both visitors and production needs, while workforce training programs equip locals with skills to support international projects.
This holistic approach ensures that Thailand’s rise as a filming destination translates into enduring benefits for communities, while safeguarding the nation’s heritage and ecosystems.
Thailand: A Global Creative Tourism Hub
With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and proactive government initiatives, Thailand has emerged as a global hub for creative tourism. By attracting high-profile productions, offering generous incentives, and investing in innovative technology, the nation is not just boosting short-term revenue but also carving out a sustainable future as one of the world’s leading film tourism destinations.
As US, South Korean, and other international filmmakers continue to spotlight Thailand’s landscapes on the global stage, the kingdom is set to thrive as a cinematic and tourism powerhouse in the years ahead.
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