Boasting a meteoric rise in Meeting and Incentive (MI) arrivals, Thailand has once more cemented its leading position in Asia’s Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. The kingdom received the esteemed title of ‘Best Meeting & Incentive Destination (Asia)’ at the M&C Asia Stella Awards 2023, marking the third consecutive year of this notable recognition.
The much-anticipated award announcement occurred amidst industry leaders and innovators at Singapore’s lavish Sands Expo & Convention Centre.
The Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has been at the helm of this exceptional growth, pivotal in positioning Thailand as a business and leisure nexus. Its President, Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, expressed his gratitude to industry peers, M&C Asia magazine, and its expansive readership for this acknowledgement. “This recurrent honour only solidifies Thailand’s allure as a premier business and leisure hub,” he remarked.
The Stella Awards come at a serendipitous time when MI arrivals in Thailand are witnessing unprecedented growth. According to TCEB data, MI visitor numbers surged more than threefold as of July 2023 compared to last year’s time frame. A mere 17,694 visitors across 37 MI groups the previous year swelled to an impressive 60,568 visitors from 138 groups this year.
Projections indicate that this upward trajectory will continue. TCEB’s recent outreach efforts in India and China, two emerging powerhouses in the MICE sector, have generated positive traction. The India roadshow yielded prospects of 54 groups accounting for nearly 47,480 visitors, while China showcased potential with 54 groups and an estimated 53,306 visitors. By consistently marking its presence at international trade exhibitions over the past two years, TCEB ensures that Thailand remains at the forefront of global business event planners’ considerations.
Mr Chiruit highlighted TCEB’s vision for the remainder of 2023, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to crafting unique MICE products, particularly in burgeoning destinations. Collaborations with local authorities, businesses, and academic bodies aim to design products that tap into each region’s intrinsic cultural and ecological treasures. “Our goal is to orchestrate unparalleled MICE experiences by integrating our rich cultural tapestry and vibrant festivities into the business event landscape,” he concluded.
As Thailand’s MICE industry gains more global recognition, it’s evident that the nation’s commitment to excellence and innovation remains undeterred. With TCEB’s visionary leadership and the industry’s collective ambition, Thailand’s trajectory in the MICE domain is set to scale even greater heights in the coming years.
For more information, visit TCEB’s Official Website.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
