Thai Government vows strong support for the domestic MICE industry
It was a show of the industry’s readiness for domestic MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) post-COVID-19. Some 6,000 suppliers, entrepreneurs, and prospective clients attended the full-day hybrid event “Thailand MICE United”. The event comprised a trade mart, a technology showcase, dialogue sessions, and the launch of two new MICE cities.
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Anutin Charnvirakul, gave reassurance during his keynote address at ‘Thailand MICE United’. “The government is well aware of the power of MICE,” he said. It is an engine for economic recovery and income generation”, he added. He also added the government’s intention in extending high-level support is to secure the wellbeing and resilience of the industry.
The full-day event saw a turnout of 1,240 delegates at Royal Paragon Hall and another 4,778 via Facebook Live. The response reflected the keen desire of Thailand’s diverse MICE stakeholders to stand together to move the industry beyond COVID-19. Domestic MICE took center stage.
Mr Anutin said: “We encourage every sector of our economy to hold its domestic meetings and trade shows in Thailand. This will help distribute income regionally and accelerate economic recovery. Now is the time for our public and private sectors to join forces and then we can elevate MICE to become an even greater economic contributor to Thailand.”
MICE MART
A key component of ‘Thailand MICE United’ was the MICE Mart. MICE Mart served a total of 360 pre-scheduled appointments. These were between 132 MICE suppliers and 305 buyers from across the country under enhanced health and safety measures.
The event held other mini-events. Firstly, a seminar on how COVID-19 has reshaped client demand. Secondly, a showcase of new technologies. Lastly, a dialogue on new meeting standards in the face of COVID-19.
MICE Cities
A highlight was the launch of two new MICE cities – Songkhla in the south and Nakhon Ratchasima in the northeast. These two cities now join Bangkok and other top-tier destinations to receive enhanced marketing and support.
TCEB President Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said that the groundwork laid will position Thailand for a robust recovery in domestic MICE. He also mentioned that TCEB’s incentives and strong government support would help the industry recover.
The COVID pandemic is not over but the strong turnout at the event was a clear signal yet of the MICE industry to bounce back. The DPM addressing the event also shows the government’s strong support for the industry and economic recovery of Thailand.
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