Thailand has potential to become a major business-meetings destination, but currently lacks clear policies and strategies, a tourism conference in Pattaya was told.
Pattreya Lakphet, the National Institute of Development Administration’s director of research into Thailand’s “meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions” sector, said MICE-related businesses need to develop a tighter network that will lower costs and better help them compete internationally.
Seminar participants pose for a commemorative photo, with Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome (center) and guest lecturer Pattreya Lakphet (center right, in white blouse).
Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome opened the July 15 MICE-networking workshop at the Amari Orchid Resort & Tower with members of the city’s tourism department, business operators and about 60 NIDA students who listened to Pattreya’s lecture on “Market Direction and Accessibility to Quality Groups.”
NIDA, she said, has studied the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s 2007-2001 evaluation of Thailand’s weak and strong points. Pattreya said success will come by companies emphasizing the kingdom’s uniqueness, culture and traditions.
However, she said, Thailand currently lacks clarity in the framework for policies and tactics required to develop a MICE industry network.
“All the kingdom has are certain strengths and opportunities, but lacks cooperation amongst the public and private sectors and collaboration from community,” Pattreya said.
To build a strong MICE industry, it is necessary to implement measures required to handle the higher level of competition to reduce costs in operation and increase efficiency, she said.
The MICE industry can clear the hurdles, Pattreya said, by rapidly increasing talent, developing operational networks and promoting cooperation among businesses and government agencies. If that is done, it will positively affect operational and business processes and Thai firms will have more ability to compete.
Pattreya suggested organizing international conferences aimed at building networks and promoting cooperation, especially in MICE cities like Bangkok, Pattaya and Chiang Mai.
