Thai MICE industry loses £60 million due to flooding

Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry has suffered revenue losses estimated at 3.32 billion Baht (£60 million) as a result of the country’s recent floods. There were 24 events cancelled and 250,800 fewer MICE visitors due to the extent of the flooding. Eight international trade shows were also postponed, including In-cosmetics Asia 2011 and Thailand Franchise and Business Opportunity 2011. At the same time, several key MICE areas were unaffected, including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Had Yai. “It’s important to note that many scheduled events have been completely unaffected,” says Akapol Sorasuchart, president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. The Asia Pacific Gulf Summit, and events for Nokia Incentive Group and the Amway Group all took place during November. There are also several large-scale events that will continue as planned in 2012, including the 2012 Rotary International Convention in May, which will bring in 30,000 visitors. “Immediate short-term measures will focus on setting up a one-stop-centre to assist MICE travellers and facilitate the provision of daily updates to the industry and all stakeholders,” says Sorasuchart. “Our MICE industry should be looking up towards the end of the first quarter of 2012.” For more information visit tceb.or.th. Report by Rose Dykins