BANGKOK The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has had an active start to 2011, signing a partnership agreement with Phuket to develop its MICE capabilities.
The partnership between TCEB and the Phuket Provincial Government will lead to the exchange of information for planning purposes including construction of infrastructure, transportation and mass transit, in order to enhance Phuket’s competitiveness as a global MICE destination.
TCEB director of exhibitions Supawan Teerarat, said: “It is an important part of our strategy to promote and support all of Thailand’s diverse regions. Each has the potential to host both small- and large-scale MICE events, with each region boasting its own strengths in the market. That’s why TCEB is implementing a proactive strategy, awarding some of the country’s most prominent tourism centres MICE City status.”
Major projects underway include the expansion of Phuket International Airport to host 11 million passengers annually, and a long-awaited convention centre due to open in 2015.
David Barrett, executive manager of Diethelm Events, said: “The partnership between TCEB and Phuket is an excellent step and a very good strategy for the bureau. This shows its countrywide support for the MICE industry not just the capital.”
The partnership follows a 2009 agreement with Pattaya.