According to The Nation, the two leaders held a bilateral meeting during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Summit. During the discussion, Anutin reaffirmed that his newly formed government has suspended all gambling-related legislation and will pursue alternative measures to drive much-needed economic recovery.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Anutin said:

“Thailand has other ways to strengthen its economy. We will rely on the capabilities of the Thai people, Thai products, and Thai technology.”

He added that President Xi praised his firm stance against gambling and reiterated China’s ongoing efforts to discourage its citizens from engaging in gambling abroad.

The Nation also reported that Anutin used the occasion to invite Chinese tourists to return to Thailand and assured them of their safety while traveling in the country.

According to a recent report by Maybank Securities Malaysia, several airlines have reduced capacity on China–Thailand routes in Q3 2025, a trend likely linked to growing safety concerns following reports on scam centers along Thailand’s borders and the high-profile kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing in January. Wang was later found to have been trafficked to Myanmar and forced to work at a scam center there.

At the Thailand Integrated Resorts Roundtable, hosted by Inside Asian Gaming in June, Kevin Clayton, Brand Director of Galaxy Resorts Thailand, said such incidents have prompted Chinese travelers to “reassess Thailand’s attractiveness as a tourist destination.”

Clayton explained:

“Affordability and convenience have always been key factors for travelers when choosing destinations, but safety remains the top priority.”

“It’s therefore understandable why many Chinese tourists are now turning to safer and more popular destinations such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.”