The highly anticipated IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 opened its doors in grand fashion at the Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld, Bangkok, Thailand. This year’s event boasts a remarkable achievement as it returns as a 100% physical event, signaling a strong resurgence of the travel and hospitality industry. With 580 exhibitors from 241 exhibiting companies and organizations, 400 buyers from 51 countries/territories, and 51 media representatives from 23 countries/territories, this event sets the stage for a revitalized era of business travel.

Mr. Darren Ng’s Vision: Elevating the Event Experience

Mr. Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media, took the stage to unveil the exciting initiatives and highlights that IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 has in store. This year’s edition is focused on enhancing the overall event experience for all delegates, offering a diverse array of business, education, and networking sessions over the course of three days.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of the travel industry in global recovery post-pandemic, Mr. Ng extended a warm welcome to both new and returning exhibitors, destinations, brands, as well as MICE, Association, and Corporate Buyers. The event’s value proposition centers around business fulfillment, with new and enhanced components introduced to complement traditional one-on-one appointments. These enhancements extend to media delegates, promising a richer experience.

A Vibrant Program Awaits: Education and Networking

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 is committed to fostering networking opportunities. Delegates can look forward to a diverse range of educational content and brand showcase programs tailored to different buyer segments and exhibitors. Interactive activities encourage meaningful networking among attendees.

Notable among the sessions is the opening keynote, led by Khun Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, President of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation. It explores the positive impact of tourism/MICE partnerships on local Thai communities and the collaborative efforts that direct spending towards supporting local individuals and communities.

The Fireside chat, featuring representatives from TCEB and TICA, delves deeper into the impact of business events on host communities, shedding light on how these gatherings contribute to city development and the upliftment of quality of life for residents and businesses alike.

A Wealth of Knowledge Sessions: Addressing Industry Trends

The event boasts an impressive lineup of knowledge sessions, with the ASEAN MICE Forum offering insights into corporate and qualifier perspectives on incentive travel experiences. Sustainability takes center stage, with discussions on embracing sustainability and empowering communities.

For corporate travel professionals attending CTW Asia-Pacific, a dedicated conference will address concerns about climate change and reducing carbon emissions in the context of business travel management.

Additionally, the IMEX-MPI-MCI-IT&CMA Future Leaders Forum 2023 and PATA explore the past, present, and future of tourism, inspiring the next generation of leaders in the MICE industry.

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya’s Vision: Travel as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), highlighted the travel industry’s significance as a priority for Thailand’s government. The free visa policy for travelers from China and Kazakhstan, in effect until the end of February next year, has already yielded quick results, illustrating the government’s commitment to the sector.

In the realm of MICE, the government’s collaboration with the business sector aims to make Thailand a global destination for world-scale festivals and trade shows, presenting ample opportunities for industry growth.

A Future of Promise: Thailand’s High-Value Destination

Thailand Pavilion B1 at the event houses 40 exhibitors, showcasing MICE service providers from various cities, including a new destination, Prachin Buri. Thailand’s commitment to innovation and choice is evident in its continuous expansion.

Special this year is the Pattaya Pavilion Number B10, housing 24 exhibitors, marking Pattaya’s serious commitment to business events. Working closely with TCEB, Pattaya is unveiling its first City Package, demonstrating its dedication to hosting MICE events.

Thailand envisions itself as a high-value destination, positioning MICE platforms as gateways to new knowledge, commercialization opportunities, technology, and expertise networks. Collaborations with the Eastern Economic Corridor Office aim to promote investment and trade in Thailand’s 12 strategic industries, fostering growth and innovation.

THAI Airways International’s Commitment: Driving MICE Industry Growth

As the flag carrier, THAI Airways International is prepared to collaborate in boosting the MICE industry and accommodating rising demand from foreign business travelers as Mr. Korakot Chatasigha THAI, Chief Commercial Officer, said. The airline’s restructuring efforts aim to improve fleet planning management, enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.

THAI Airways International is set to operate non-stop flights between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and iGA Istanbul Airport, Turkey, from December 1st onward, with plans to increase flight frequencies to/from China. This initiative aligns with Thailand’s vision of becoming a regional aviation hub.

In Conclusion, IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 sets the stage for a dynamic revival of business travel in Thailand. With innovative initiatives, a commitment to sustainability, and collaboration between the government and private sector, Thailand is poised to become a high-value destination for MICE events. This event demonstrates the resilience of the travel and hospitality industry and its integral role in stimulating Thailand’s economy. As the world recovers, Thailand stands ready to welcome business travelers, offering unique opportunities for growth and collaboration.