THE Thai cabinet Tuesday resolved to extend the period for free visas on arrival for visitors from China, India and other countries in an attempt to boost the economy.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said the cabinet meeting had resolved to extend free visas on arrival for visitors from October this year to April 30 next year.

The waivers are part of a US$10-billion stimulus package to boost economic growth.

Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said Tuesday that the 2,000-baht (US$65) visa fee exemption was for visitors from 18 countries, including China and India.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha also said that the fee exemption was extended until the end of April so it would include the Songkran festival next year.

Foreign tourist receipts make up about 12 percent of Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, but arrivals increased just 0.89 percent in June, with visitors from China declining 7.1 percent from a year earlier. (Xinhua)