Martial law imposed since the military coup in Thailand could soon be lifted in 22 provinces popular with tourists, according to Thai media.

Provinces such as Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, and Rayong along with several southern areas are among those under consideration.

Army regional commands have duties to review the impact of removing the emergency measures imposed since May 20 and brief it to Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.

It is expected that the issue will be considered at a meeting of the newly formed Cabinet on September 9. Consideration will only be made in areas where there is no opposition to military rule.

Martial law was declared under a century-old legal clause which grants the military special powers including imposition of curfew, detention and arrest without warrant and media censorship.

The Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports admitted that the number of foreign visitors to Thailand was lower than targeted this year partially due to imposing martial law and the ministry will increasingly promote local tourism next year.

This year, Thailand expects to receive 25.5 million foreign visitors who will contribute 1.8 trillion THB to the national coffers.-VNA