After a couple of slow years during the Covid-19 pandemic, the MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) industry in Thailand is looking to make a strong rebound with hundreds of events scheduled in the coming year.
Long before it was known as MICE, Thailand was hosting impressive events and exhibitions. The first national, large-scale exhibition was held at Sanam Luang on 26 April 1882. It was held in response to King Rama V’s desire to promote products from all over the country and laid the groundwork to today’s vibrant exhibition scene and Thailand’s success in the MICE space. In fact, to promote the country’s MICE capabilities and further support the industry, the Thai government in 2021 made 26 April the National MICE Day, held for the first time in 2022, exactly 140 years after the first national exhibition.
With a strong record of world-class hospitality and a host of professional facilities, Thailand has cemented itself as one of the premier MICE destinations in Asia. In 2021, Bangkok was ranked the 6th Best International Convention Destination in the World by leading consulting firm GainingEgde. In 2022, the capital was 1st in Asia-Pacific International Conferences Harnesssing Ratio.
It is Bangkok’s well-developed infrastructure, connectivity, wide variety of venues and great human resources that have helped shape its success as an internationally recognised MICE destination. Venues such as BITEC Buri host hundreds of national and international events each year, attracting thousands of visitors and making significant contributions to the local economy.
The industry is supported by the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), which was formed in 2002 with the specific purpose of promoting and developing the business tourism sector. TCEB offers an extensive support system and innovative approaches to continually develop and improve Thailand’s leading edge, including analysis, insights and research.
“Our finest job is to continue to ensure the MICE industry in Thailand has what it needs to continually improve and innovate in order to maintain our position as one of the leading MICE destinations in the world. Thailand is perfectly positioned to lead the way in this sector, and we are privileged to work with such varied and talented players in an industry that is always evolving,” says TCEB President, Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya.
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We have packaged, sold and managed sponsorship and partnership opportunities for a wide range of rights holders and worked with many of the world’s leading brands to source and engage the right sponsorships and partnerships for them to maximise.
