Sumate Sudasna has been appointed president of the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), an industry organisation for the private sector. Sudasna has 25 years experience in the MICE industry and has worked with TICA since its inception. He talks with CEI Asia on his new role. 



What is TICA’s role within the Thai MICE industry?
In addition to attracting MICE events to Thailand, TICA is a forum for specialised MICE operators, representing the private sector within Team Thailand. TICA provides confidence that events will be professionally managed, and that business objectives will be achieved.

What does TICA offer event planners looking to hold events in Thailand?
TICA can direct planners to the best suited suppliers for their events, liaise with various government organisations to facilitate events and provide consultation on matters relating to both the event and the destination.

What new resources are available?
Our new website offers planners comprehensive support information on Thailand. It includes a venue and supplier directory and search function, photo gallery, event directory, destination development news, promotional and product update video clips – even speaker suggestions. TICA would like the website to be a useful tool for planners and will continue to develop it to serve their needs.

What do you hope to achieve during your term?
To strengthen the unity of stakeholders and weather the challenges; to improve the means by which we communicate with planners; and to continue our strong educational programmes. The more immediate task is to stimulate events from domestic sources. TICA works closely with TCEB on marketing and capability development.

Visit www.tica.or.th for further information