Thailand drops pre-departure RT-PCR tests for overseas arrivals, allows Songkran celebrations

14 Sept 01:58 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand eliminates the pre-departure RT-PCR test requirement for international arrivals starting April 1st, though on-arrival and day-5 antigen tests remain mandatory.
The nation permits some Songkran festival celebrations, allowing traditional activities while prohibiting foam parties and alcohol sales; larger events require prior approval and adherence to COVID-19 protocols.
Travel restrictions ease further with increased entry points and expanded "sandbox" tourism areas, aiming to revitalize the vital tourism sector, despite extending the emergency decree until May 31st.
The Ministry of Public Health's plan to gradually reclassify COVID-19 as an endemic disease is approved, with an anticipated decline in infection rates by July.

Thailand News in Brief