Thailand is expected to give top priority to rebuild the country's image abroad to help revive the cash-rich and critical tourism sector.

The political unrest that resulted in the closure of the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport had severely affected the country's foreign direct investment (FDI) and tourism industry.

FDI dropped from approximately US$11 billion in 2007 to US$5 billion in 2008. In 2009, FDI is expected to decline further to less than US$5 billion.

Currently, the tourism industry is facing a sharp decline in bookings and business during the peak season period which usually make up 40% of total revenues for the year.

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