TAT launches drive for Thai CEI business to stay home

By David Johnson BANGKOK The Thai government has embarked on a major drive to keep private and public sector events on home soil as it tries to boost the conference, exhibition and incentive (CEI) sector. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is targeting government agencies, listed firms and chambers of commerce in an effort to raise the image of the sector and increase revenue. A lavish industry exhibition on July 29 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre was the first event designed exclusively as a market stimulator, an event that will be organised by the newly-formed Convention & Exhibitions Bureau (CEB) next year. It lured civil servants, trade associations and local and multinational firms. The move to boost the domestic CEI sector has been met with cautious support by Bangkok-based destination management companies. "I am delighted the Royal Thai government recognises the importance of events in Thailand and is spearheading an initiative to keep both private and public sector events here," said Mr David Barrett, executive manager, Diethelm Events. "This needs to be backed up by incentives to stay at home, such as cost savings, better event facilities and general improvements in infrastructure." Mr Barrett said over the past six months Diethelm Events had received an increase in requests for assistance from local corporations and government agencies seeking to stage conferences and other events in Thailand. Ms Pornthip Samerton, Destination Asia Thailand managing director, said the domestic market only represented a small portion of the firm's business. "Therefore, we are in a perfect position to react to any developments in this market," she said. Ms Pornthip said Thailand was focused on inbound activities. "It would be interesting to see research into the domestic events market. Hotels and domestic airlines need to show more interest in this sector," she said.