Thailand steps up technology service levels

BANGKOK Thailand's conference and incentive (C&I) industry is preparing to introduce high-tech services to win more international conventions. The move is seen as another step toward competing more effecitvely with regional rivals Hong Kong and Singapore. Advanced Info Systems, part of the Shinawatra Group and a member of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), recently presented the latest mobile products on the market to TICA members, including SMS text message systems. TICA executive director Mr Anuchart Channarong said: "We have been advised by our clients they need up-to-date technology," he said. "They think Thailand can't match Hong Kong or Singapore, but that is not the case any more." Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) director international convention division Mr Udom Metatamrongsiri said if the technology encouraged international convention business to Thailand, the TAT would "be all for it".