Thailand is cementing its status as a winning business events destination with a number of new openings, bid wins and new incentives for corporate event planners.

The proof is in the figures, such as the recent ICCA 2019 Country and City Rankings, which saw Thailand jump up one spot to fifth most popular place in Asia Pacific to host a meeting.

In 2018, Thailand had its highest ever number of conventions ever recorded, with 193 events taking place throughout the year.

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) president Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said Thailand is ready to welcome international business events and support their success.

“The improved ranking, the constant development of MICE infrastructure and attractions, and overseas confidence in selecting Thailand show our dynamic to redefine business experiences and generate stronger return on investment,” he said.

Openings

Thailand’s business event offering is rapidly growing with the launch of True ICONSIAM Hall, a riverside venue offering 12,000 square metres of event space, and Capella Hotel Bangkok, set to open soon in the capital city.

In 2022 the renovated Queen Sirikit National Convention Center will re-open offering 55,000 square metres of event space in Bangkok, while three five-star hotels are also set to open in the city.

Major global events

Accompanying this international recognition and surge in development are major bid wins, including 10 new bids secured by TCEB in the first half of 2019.

International events taking place in Thailand this year include:

• 33rd International Epilepsy Congress 2019, 4200 pax, 22-26 June
• 45th International Council of Traditional Music, 1000 pax, 7-14 July
• 8th Education International World Congress 2019, 19-26 July
• 86th UFI Global Congress, 400 pax, 6-9 November

According to the latest statistics from TCEB, Thailand welcomed 594,663 overseas MICE visitors in the first half of 2019, representing an increase of 8.6 per cent compared to the same period last year.

New incentives for corporate planners

TCEB has launched financial incentives for corporate groups and planners to encourage large-scale visits to the country.

The new ‘Meet Special Bonus’ privileges are available for planners holding an event with a minimum of 100 international delegates who stay in Thailand at least three nights and use a venue recognised by the Thailand MICE Venue Standard or stay in a TICA member’s hotel.

Groups will receive a THB 50,000 (approximately AU$2275) financial subsidy to support groups travelling between now and 30 September 2019.

More reasons to visit Thailand

Alongside major new venue openings, TCEB has launched a ‘7 Magnificent MICE Themes’ campaign focusing on the country’s key and unique attractions, which are history and culture, exhilarating adventures, team building, CSR and green meetings, beach bliss, lavish luxury and culinary journeys.

Highlights for delegates include taking part in the restoration of marine life in Pattaya and learning about the production of organic coffee from a local community in Chiang Mai.

Delegates can also enjoy highly rated culinary experiences, ranging from the 27 Michelin-starred restaurants on offer to innovative street vendors. There are also new attractions such as an ultra-luxury shopping complex along the river in Bangkok at ICONSIAM and King Power Mahanakhon Observation Deck, the highest point of Bangkok and perfect for small groups.