Thailand Focuses on Accessibility and Incentive Experiences at IBTM 2024

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), along with 25 exhibitors from Bangkok and Phuket, participated in IBTM 2024 in Barcelona from November 19 to 21. Promoting Thailand as a premier destination, TCEB showcased a variety of innovative developments, including improved accessibility, new event venues, sustainable practices, low-carbon MICE travel options, and engaging incentive experiences. These initiatives aim to transform events in Thailand into exceptional and eco-conscious experiences. At a press briefing, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), highlighted key advancements aimed at enhancing accessibility. These include the opening of a third runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport to boost flight capacity, the adoption of biometric systems for smoother passenger processing, a visa-free policy for travelers from 93 countries and territories, and expedited immigration services for MICE groups at both Bangkok airports. He also unveiled high-profile developments, such as the reimagined Dusit Thani Hotel and the ambitious One Bangkok project. The latter features 190,000 square meters of retail space, five planned luxury hotels, and an event venue with a seating capacity of 6,000. On the sustainability front, Mr. Chiruit emphasized the collaboration between TCEB and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in creating the Bangkok Protocol for Sustainable Gastronomy. This initiative, inspired by real-world food management practices during the ICCA Congress 2023 in Bangkok, provides a framework for sustainable food practices at future ICCA and Thai events. To further promote sustainable tourism, he introduced the Carbon Neutral Tourism (CNT) Initiative, developed in partnership with eight public and private organizations. This initiative aims to offer eco-friendly travel experiences in Thailand for international visitors. Adding to this, Ms. Supanich Thiansing, Director of TCEB’s Meetings and Incentives (MI) Department, discussed the low-carbon MICE routes created by the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA) under the CNT initiative. These routes, available in MICE cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, focus on ecological and cultural experiences, showcasing Thailand’s rich local heritage and sustainable practices. Ms. Supanich introduced a fresh concept called the “Mindful MI Experience” to the European market, featuring a range of engaging activities. These include Eco-Inspiration, which focuses on designing low-carbon MICE routes; Local Immersion, where participants explore and embrace local lifestyles through cultural and culinary journeys; and City Exploration, which involves hosting events across two cities within the same trip to provide diverse and enriching experiences. At the Thailand Pavilion, TCEB has curated three interactive activities for buyers and visitors to experience a taste of Thailand: “Time for Tea from Thailand”, “Where am I in Thailand?”, and “THAI NUMBER BINGO”. “I am confident that a series of new development in Thailand will deliver higher return on experience for overseas MICE travelers. We are aware of the evolving needs and requirements of business travel amidst the challenging economic landscape. For this reason, we are always working in partnership with stakeholders in crafting new and high-value choices for planners and travelers”, concluded Mr. Chiruit.