Bangkok, Thailand, May 27, 2020 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand's tourism and health authorities have joined forces to launch a unique certification program designed to prepare the Thai tourism industry for the recovery phase and boost the confidence of international and domestic tourists.

The “Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration: SHA” project was launched today by Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakan, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Chote Trachu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Dr. Panpimol Wipulakorn, Director General of the Health Department of the Ministry of Public Health, and Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, at a press conference entitled “Amazing Thailand Safety & Health Administration: (SHA)” in the Grand Ballroom, 2nd Floor, The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok.

Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakan, Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated: “The Covid-19 virus spread rapidly and widely in many countries around the world, infecting and killing numerous people. Thanks to the swift action of the Thai government and the widespread support of the population, Thailand has been able to contain the spread of the disease for the time being.”

“However, Thailand remains threatened by a second wave, which is why continued vigilance and public support for prevention and control measures are necessary. At the same time, we must ensure a gradual economic recovery that goes hand in hand with behavioral changes in line with the new way of life or the new normal.”

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, stated: “Ensuring high health and safety standards will be one of the most important criteria for Thai tourism to maintain a competitive edge during the recovery phase. The desire to travel will remain strong, but when it comes to making a decision, visitors will choose destinations where they feel safe and secure.”

The governor explained that all applicant businesses will undergo a rigorous review and receive the SHA logo as a mark of quality for their service. The logo is issued by the TAT and is valid for two years. All accredited businesses are recorded in a database. The logo will be revoked in cases of violations.

Ten types of businesses can request the SHA standard as follows:

1. Restaurants / Catering Establishments 2. Hotels / Accommodations and Convention Centers 3. Leisure and Tourist Attractions 4. Tourist Transportation 5. Travel Agencies / Tour Operators 6. Health and Beauty Salons 7. Department Stores and Shopping Centers 8. Sports Stadiums for Tourism 9. Theaters / Cinemas 10. Souvenir Shops and Other Stores.

The names of SHA-certified establishments are published via www.tourismthailand.org/thailandsha and through the communication channels of the TAT's domestic and foreign offices to strengthen tourist confidence.

Tourism companies and anyone interested in providing tourist services or participating in the “Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA)” program can contact [email protected] via email or through the official Twitter page @thailandsha.