Thailand, Will PCR Tests Also Be Removed Next Month? "Review After Songkran"

PCR Negative Test Result Required Within 72 Hours Abolished
Under Review for Tourism Promotion Purposes

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki Ha-young] Thailand is considering abolishing the PCR test on the day of entry for fully vaccinated overseas visitors starting next month.

Satit Pitutecha, Deputy Minister of Health, announced this to reporters after the government’s COVID-19 Situation Administration Center (CCSA) meeting on the 8th, Bloomberg reported.

Deputy Minister Satit explained, "In this case, the existing PCR test on the day of entry will be replaced by a rapid antigen test conducted at the airport," adding, "This will eliminate the need to stay overnight at a hotel while waiting for PCR test results."

Since the 1st of this month, Thailand has allowed entry without quarantine, sandbox, or quarantine entry programs for all types of arrivals without requiring a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure. However, the PCR test on the day of entry and the rapid antigen test on the fifth day after entry have been maintained. In response, the tourism industry has urged further abolition of the PCR test on the day of entry to attract more tourists.

However, Taweesin Visanuyothin, CCSA spokesperson, stated in a briefing that additional entry easing measures will be reviewed again after the Songkran holiday period next week. Spokesperson Taweesin said, "While the CCSA in principle agrees to abolish the PCR test on the day of entry, it has not yet approved it."

Meanwhile, on the same day, Thailand reported 25,140 new COVID-19 cases and 89 deaths.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.