Previously called Thailand Incentive and Meeting Exchange, the annual TIME event organised by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) was rebranded to reflect fresh initiatives, more innovation, stronger partnerships and steadfast commitment to a sustainable future.
Held in Bangkok and Chiang Mai from June 17 to 22, TIME 2024 saw 40 hosted buyers from Asia, Australia, Europe and the US meeting with about 90 Thai MICE suppliers in both cities through a business and experience exchange.
“TIME 2024 offered the widest choice of Thai suppliers (Bangkok and Chiang Mai in combination) we have ever offered in one single trip for the global business events industry,” said TCEB’s director of meetings and incentives, Supanich Thiansing.
“The business exchange program thus produced a return on investment for overseas buyers.”
Buyers also enjoyed a “return on experience” she added, as they explored updated products in Chiang Mai crafted to suit meetings and incentive groups.
“TIME 2024 was a platform to showcase the dynamics of the Thai MICE industry,” said Thiansing.
Besides making direct contact with suppliers, buyers said they appreciated the good mix of culture and entertainment activities and visiting an elephant-care sanctuary in Chiang Mai.
An Australian buyer cited “good ROI in meeting a large number of Thai suppliers over a short period of time, thus saving time in event planning”.
Down south, TTM+ was held at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa Phang-nga from June 5 to 7. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for the wider tourism market, the event drew a record 425 buyers and 430 sellers.
The “High-Value, Sustainable Tourism” theme focused on responsible travel experiences that connect with local communities, support sustainable practices and minimise environmental impact.
“TTM+ 2024 showcased Thailand’s commitment to this vision through wellness retreats in nature and cultural tours promoting local heritage…to foster collaboration and innovation,” said TAT’s deputy governor for marketing communications, Nithee Seeprae.
“By embracing these values, we can ensure Thailand remains a premier travel destination, preserving its natural beauty and cultural richness.”
Half-day pre-tours of Phang-nga’s nature and cultural immersion experiences included visiting an ecotourism village, kayaking with villagers to watch black mud crab-catching using traditional techniques, bamboo rafting through plantations and jungle and savouring a Thai seafood lunch. Such activities can be adapted for corporate and incentive itineraries.
Post-event tours gave participants the opportunity to visit Phuket, Krabi and Ko Samui in the south and Chiang Mai and Lamphun in the north.
