Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, cautioned against making sweeping assumptions about Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, claiming they all have the intent of exploiting the country and participating in illegal businesses and acts.
In response to worries about the proposed three-month visa exemption for Chinese tourists, Sudawan said it was made in response to concerns raised. Critics said the free visa policy - originally proposed by PM Srettha Thavisin - would lead to more transnational crime involving Chinese nationals.