The recent severe flooding in Chiang Mai has had a profound impact on the city's hospitality industry, with the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector being particularly affected. As a prominent hub for tourism and business events, Chiang Mai relies heavily on its infrastructure and services, both of which were significantly disrupted by the floods.

"Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will hold her first mobile cabinet meeting under the theme 'From Flood to Flourish', to rehabilitate Chiang Mai following the devastating floods. A budget of Baht 265 million has been earmarked for the restoration project, with Chiang Mai's business community putting forth rehabilitation proposals."

Many hotels and resorts suffered damage to their facilities, leading to the cancellation or postponement of bookings. Some establishments reported prolonged power outages, waterlogging, and damage to conference halls, rendering them unsuitable for hosting events. Additionally, travel disruptions caused by submerged roads and airport delays further compounded the challenges, deterring both domestic and international travellers from visiting the city.

The economic repercussions are substantial. Small and medium enterprises, such as catering services, transport providers, and event organisers, experienced severe financial losses due to reduced business activity. Many employees in the hospitality and MICE sectors faced wage reductions or temporary layoffs as businesses grappled with reduced revenue streams.

Furthermore, the flooding has negatively impacted Chiang Mai's reputation as a reliable MICE destination. International stakeholders may reconsider hosting future events in the city due to perceived risks, potentially leading to long-term declines in business tourism.

Efforts are now underway to restore normality, including infrastructure repairs and support for affected businesses. However, recovery will require substantial investment, strategic marketing campaigns, and improved disaster preparedness to reassure stakeholders and revive the city's hospitality and MICE industries.