Thailand’s tourism-related stocks are on the rise on Thursday trading as the government is considering resuming the “Test and Go” program, with AOT, AAV and MINT leading the gain.
As of 10.35 a.m. local time in Thailand, the share price of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (SET: AOT) rose THB1.50/share or 2.45% to THB62.75/share, with a trading value of THB1,477 million.
The share price of Asia Aviation Public Company Limited (SET: AAV) rose THB0.08/share or 3.17% to THB2.60/share, with a trading value of THB50 million.
The share price of Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited (SET: BA) rose THB0.25/share or 2.62% to THB9.80/share, with a trading value of THB24 million.
The share price of The Erawan Group Public Company Limited (SET: ERW) rose THB0.08/share or 2.65% to THB3.10/share, with a trading value of THB39 million.
The share price of Minor International Public Company Limited (SET: MINT) rose THB0.75/share or 2.50% to THB30.75/share, with a trading value of THB267 million.
The Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on Thursday is scheduled to deliberate on resuming the “Test and Go” quarantine exemption program that was suspended since late last year due to the spread of omicron.
According to local media reports, Thai tourism officials have been seeking to reopen registration for the Test and Go by February, as Thailand’s Covid-19 situation has stabilized and passed its peak.
Gen Supot Malaniyom, secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC) and head of the CCSA’s Operations Center, stated on Wednesday that loosening of restrictions on “Test and Go” travelers is meant to assist revitalize the country’s tourism sector, which in pre-COVID periods contributed up to 20% of the country’s GDP.
He added that more easing of travel restrictions will also be proposed to the CCSA, such as the classification of 13 areas as sandbox zones, including five tourist pilot provinces. However, the meeting will not discuss the reopening of bars, pubs, or karaoke establishments, as they are still considered to be high risk places for COVID-19.
