'Open minded' Thailand banks on LGBT tourists, 'boys love' exports

Bangkok Pride events draw long-haul tourists who stay for days after the parade

20230606 LGBTQ STORY3

Bangkok's annual Pride parade took place on June 4, drawing thousands of participants from around the world. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi)

APORNRATH PHOONPHONGPHIPHAT, Nikkei staff writer

BANGKOK -- Thailand's tourism sector is taking LGBT travelers more seriously, hoping their spending on events and medical treatments gives the country a post-COVID economic jolt.

The Thai economy grew 2.7% in the first quarter of 2023 from a year earlier, and the central bank expects it to expand 3.6% for the whole year. Authorities say the tourism sector, which accounted for about 20% of the economy before the pandemic, will play an essential role.

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