TAT boosts ‘Travel Ivory Free’ campaign in partnership with WWF Thailand

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reiterated its unwavering support for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Thailand and its initiative, the ‘Travel Ivory Free’ campaign, encouraging tourists to adopt responsible travel practices by refraining from purchasing ivory products. At the recent campaign unveiling by WWF Thailand, the initiative highlighted its persistent efforts to alter tourist purchasing habits and eliminate the illegal ivory market. The event saw significant participation from stakeholders in the travel sector and international bodies, united in their goal to foster awareness and advocate for sustainable tourism practices.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said “TAT has been a strong supporter since the campaign’s inception in 2018. Through our public relations efforts, we urge tourists to be a part of this awareness-raising initiative to help curtail demand for ivory products. Also, since 2020, we have been promoting the “Elephant Care Tourism” initiative to offer tourism that cares about Thai elephants”

The campaign was initiated by WWF Thailand following China’s prohibition of its domestic ivory trade at the end of 2017. A critical aspect of this campaign is to inform tourists that purchasing ivory products and exporting them from Thailand is illegal, with violators facing severe penalties under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act, B.E. 2562 (2019), including imprisonment of up to ten years or fines reaching one million Baht, or both.

Research by GlobeScan indicates that Thailand is still a prominent destination for illegal ivory purchases. Although some tourists premeditate buying ivory as souvenirs or gifts, many are influenced by local tour guides during their stay.

Ms. Pimpavadee Phaholyothin, WWF Thailand’s Chief Executive Officer, said together with key players in the travel and tourism industry, WWF Thailand will continue to actively raise awareness to urge tourists to put an end to the illegal ivory trade and help spread the awareness by using #TravelIvoryFree via social media.

Tourists are invited to engage with the ‘Travel Ivory Free’ initiative at major tourist spots across Thailand, including international airports and shopping centers, to contribute to raising awareness and experiencing sustainable tourism in Thailand.

« Back to Page