TICA MICE UPDATE

Thailand has always presented a positive outlook when it comes to the country’s MICE potential, and, thanks to its excellent connectivity, wide-ranging destinations and world-famous hospitality, the country’s MICE industry has been growing in leaps and bounds. In fact, today Thailand has become a preferred destination for MICE events, thanks to improved infrastructure, an increased number of hotels and event venues, and experienced MICE planners and organisers.

Despite the global economic stagnancy, and a not-so-bright local business environment, the Thai MICE industry continues to grow and develop, along with the country’s tourism industry, which saw over 32 million tourist arrivals in January 2016 – the highest figure ever reached. Meanwhile, 360 meetings and trade shows are planned in Thailand for the second half of this year, 75 percent of them international-scale conferences and trade exhibitions. Earlier this month, the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) released its rankings, findings which shows Thailand as the 24th world’s association meeting destination, up from 27th last year. In the same survey, Bangkok jumped from 16th to 12th. Acting President of TCEB Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said the improved ranking reflected Thailand’s competitiveness and professionalism in the world MICE industry.

For a more long-term view of the industry, Research and Markets recently released its latest ‘Thailand Industry & Forecast to 2022’ report, forecasting that the kingdom could expect to be hosting more than 1.3 million MICE travellers by the year 2022. This would generate approximately USD four billion in revenue.

In this issue, our destination highlight is ‘Khon Kaen’, one of the four major cities of Isan (Northeast Thailand) selected to be the host destination of TICA’s Convention Promotion Seminar & Convention Exhibition (CPS & CONVEX) from 14-16 September 2017 at the AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre. This is a biennial marketing initiative for organisers of conferences and exhibitions from the Government, Associations, and State Enterprises. Khon Kaen is also home to some important tourist attractions, including Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, and the Khon Kaen National Museum, displaying a diverse selection of antiques, precious art pieces and archaeological finds from the region.

As for TICA’s role, I am proud to say that our ongoing training and networking efforts continue to ensure that Thai MICE professionals, hospitality managers and staff are all equipped to help organisations and companies achieve their event objectives and goals.

Thailand is poised to become a leading MICE destination not only in Asia, but across the globe, and the signs all lead to this conclusion. With a combination of professionalism and readiness - responding to customers’ needs and helping them reach their objectives in organising business events - we look forward to showing the world that Thailand is the natural number one MICE destination of choice.