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Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Thailand MICE Momentum Brews in Chiang Rai at Global Coffee and Tea Forum
CHIANG RAI, Thailand, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The vision of the northern Thai city of Chiang Rai to become a destination for tea and coffee took a significant leap forward with the successful hosting of the "Global Coffee and Tea Association Forum 2025: Shaping the Future Together" from 17 to 20 July. Showcasing the city's MICE potential, this landmark event featured a combination of insightful presentation and discussions, dynamic exhibitions, and immersive site visits. It brought together 211 delegates consisting of 165 Thais and 46 overseas participants from 11 territories – Australia, Cambodia, Mainland China, Colombia, Denmark, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Myanmar, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam. During the forum, participating industry professionals engaged in knowledge exchange, networking, and business development. Participants also engaged directly with local plantations, processing facilities, and tasting experiences, brewing substantial opportunities to drive growth across Chiang Rai's tea and coffee sectors. Building on the momentum of two international Tea and Coffee symposia in 2023 and 2024, the forum was supported by strong multi-institutional collaboration among the Tea and Coffee Institute of Mae Fah Luang University, Singha Park Chiang Rai Co., Ltd., and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). According to Mr. Puripan Bunnag, Acting President of TCEB, Chiang Rai has proven its capacity as a secondary city capable of hosting major business events. He stated, "MICE is serving as a powerful driver for the local economy. The success of the 'Global Coffee and Tea Association Forum 2025' not only reinforced the city's ambition to become a destination for quality tea and coffee on domestic and regional levels but also supported Chiang Rai's goal of emerging as a center for national and international tea and coffee festival events." Convention Highlights Global Industry Dialogue The forum commenced with a convention at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, bringing together experts and entrepreneurs from China, Japan, Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore, Denmark, Australia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Key topics explored a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from prevalent challenges and product innovation to sustainability, carbon footprint, blending and flavoring, and wellness-oriented consumption. Sessions were complemented by showcases of product development, processing research, and production solutions. Exhibition Showcases Regional Excellence and Innovation Following the convention, "Chiang Rai Brewtopia Green Season" exhibition at Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park, held from July 18 to 20, was inaugurated by Mr. Rutisak Rangsri, Vice Governor of Chiang Rai; Mr. Puripan Bunnag, Acting President of TCEB; and Asst. Prof. Dr. Piyaporn Chueamchaitrakun, Head of the Tea and Coffee Institute at Mae Fah Luang University. The exhibition featured around 40 coffee and tea entrepreneurs providing overseas delegates with direct access to uniquely blended teas and coffees crafted by ethnic hill tribes, emerging local talents, and artisanal creators. Complemented by workshops, business talks, and product showcases, the event highlighted Chiang Rai's growing influence and innovation within the industry. Site Visits Underscore Chiang Rai's Production Strengths To highlight the region's agricultural strengths, the forum featured "A Cup to Village" site visits to renowned tea and coffee plantations. Choui Fong Tea in Mae Chan demonstrated organic hill-terrace cultivation, production process and tastings of its award-winning Oolong tea. Wang Put Tan Tea in Doi Mae Salong showcased community transformation through high-quality Oolong and Black Tea, with the latter winning the Grand Gold Prize at the 2021 World Green Tea Contest. The site provided insights into tea production and tasting experiences. Doi Chang Coffee in Mae Suai illustrated the success of the Arabica crop introduced under the 1969 Royal Project to replace slash-and-burn farming. Now a recognized brand with a unique aroma, forest coexistence, academic support, exports to 10+ countries, and GI certification from the European Union. The visit ended with a cupping session by the Queen of Coffee. The successful hosting of the Global Coffee and Tea Association Forum 2025 marked another significant chapter of Chiang Rai in MICE's development. The city made its first-ever entry into ICCA's global city rankings in 2024 after hosting two ICCA-qualified conferences. It also hosted the Spring Meeting of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) in February 2025 and will be welcoming the PATA Destination Marketing Forum this coming November. "As part of TCEB's strategy to diversify Thailand's event destinations, we are actively promoting cities with unique strengths to boost their competitiveness on the global MICE stage. Chiang Rai, with its rich tea and coffee heritage, exemplifies how we attract international events and strengthen the city's position on the global MICE map," added Mr. Puripan. About TCEB A LEADING AGENCY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THAILAND'S MICE INDUSTRY Established in 2004, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB – the government agency under the supervision of the Prime Minister – has been assigned a role to promote, support and develop business events industry – corporate meetings, incentive trips, conventions, exhibitions, mega events and world festivals. Serving as a strategic partner, TCEB helps deliver creative ideas and solutions to bring success and fulfill the requirements of business events. The overarching goal is to drive Thailand to become a global MICE and mega events destination that can drive the country's strategic industries and national economy.


Malaysian Reserve
03-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
TCEB Highlights High-Value Offerings Enriched Wellness, Diverse Venues through Bangkok-Hua Hin MICE Showcase
BANGKOK, July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high value for business events. Leveraging TIME 2025 to demonstrate new possibilities, TCEB showcased how a city-pairing destination, Bangkok–Hua Hin, brings together an exclusive train ride, enriched wellness options, and diverse venue settings, all showing value for maximisation and memorable and meaningful MICE experiences. Mr. Puripan Bunnag, Acting President of TCEB, said, 'Thailand Innovative Meetings Exchange (TIME) is TCEB's annual event connecting overseas MICE buyers and planners with Thai suppliers to showcase value-drive approach to business events in Thailand. The 2025 edition, held from 16 to 20 June, welcomed 51 overseas buyers and 3 overseas media from 15 markets in Asia-Pacific, Europe and the US. We are proud that TIME 2025 has introduced a wealth of memorable and meaningful experiences that meet the sophisticated needs of the MICE industry. It is in line with our vision 'Meet in Thailand, Your Success, Your Moment' campaign, where the 3M elements — Maximization, Meaningful, and Memorable — will help planners unlock new potential in Thailand.' Highlights of TIME 2025 Bangkok–Hua Hin City Pairing: The city-pairing destination, Bangkok–Hua Hin, was designed to demonstrate the possibility of well-connected destinations in one trip. Delegates experienced a dynamic blend of the capital's urban energy and Hua Hin's coastal charm. The pinnacle was the Royal Blossom Train Ride from Hua Hin to Bangkok. Operated by the State Railway of Thailand, this exclusive service became a memorable experience as it offered amenities such as retractable wide seats, USB ports, worktables, a small bar, elegant interiors, large windows for scenic views and space for networking, activities or relaxation. Wellness-Focused Programming: Recognizing the growing demand for memorable and meaningful well-being in business travel, TCEB featured: Muay Thai at Rajadamnern Stadium in Bangkok — an electrifying showcase enhanced with immersive technology that energized audiences. At Wat Pho also in Bangkok, a hands-on class in Traditional Thai Massage taught self-massage techniques designed for professionals with limited time. 'Travel with Your Nose' workshop in a historic neighborhood near Chinatown highlighted Thailand's herbal heritage through the crafting of fragrant inhalers near a century-old herbal medicine shop still operating today. RXV Wellness Village by the river in Sampran on the way to Hua Hin, featuring a holistic wellness journey with spa therapies, mental health activities, and plant-based cuisine. Chiva-Som, the internationally acclaimed resort by the sea in Hua Hin, offering holistic well-being — science, nutrition, fitness, and traditional Thai healing. Diverse and Unconventional Venues: Enhanced venue options tailored to diverse business needs included: Riverside Venues in Bangkok: Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Avani+ Riverside, Millennium Hilton, and True Icon Hall. CBD Venues: Dusit Central Park Hotel, along with two distinctive dining locations — the historic House on Sathorn and Nobu Rooftop Bar. Seaside Venues in Hua Hin: The Standard Hua Hin, which offers beachside teambuilding activities, Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa, InterContinental Hua Hin Resort and unconventional Ban Chok Restaurant for social functions. Cultural and Community Immersion Interactive storytelling at Pipit Banglamphu Museum in Bangkok, a show of cultural legacy of the Banglamphu district through modern technology and traditional exhibits. Art workshop at Baan Silapin (The Artist's House) along Bangkok's historic Bang Luang Canal. On the way to Hua Hin, a visit to sugar palm plantation in Phetchaburi, to witness local technique of collecting sap for palm sugar production and for making traditional desserts. CSR Contribution: Reinforcing TCEB's commitment to community impact, well-balanced and meaningful programme, TIME 2025 included a CSR initiative to make where delegates donated sports equipment, school supplies, stationery, and bicycles to the Education Division of Cha-am Municipality in Phetchaburi Province, supporting local youth and education access. For more information, contact TCEB at: [email protected] Thailand MICE – Meet the Magic About TCEB A LEADING AGENCY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THAILAND'S MICE INDUSTRY Established in 2004, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB – the government agency under the supervision of the Prime Minister – has been assigned a role to promote, support and develop business events industry – corporate meetings, incentive trips, conventions, exhibitions, mega events and world festivals. Serving as a strategic partner, TCEB helps deliver creative ideas and solutions to bring success and fulfill the requirements of business events. The overarching goal is to drive Thailand to become a global MICE and mega events destination that can drive the country's strategic industries and national economy.


Korea Herald
03-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
TCEB Highlights High-Value Offerings Enriched Wellness, Diverse Venues through Bangkok-Hua Hin MICE Showcase
BANGKOK, July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high value for business events. Leveraging TIME 2025 to demonstrate new possibilities, TCEB showcased how a city-pairing destination, Bangkok–Hua Hin, brings together an exclusive train ride, enriched wellness options, and diverse venue settings, all showing value for maximisation and memorable and meaningful MICE experiences. Mr. Puripan Bunnag, Acting President of TCEB, said, "Thailand Innovative Meetings Exchange (TIME) is TCEB's annual event connecting overseas MICE buyers and planners with Thai suppliers to showcase value-drive approach to business events in Thailand. The 2025 edition, held from 16 to 20 June, welcomed 51 overseas buyers and 3 overseas media from 15 markets in Asia-Pacific, Europe and the US. We are proud that TIME 2025 has introduced a wealth of memorable and meaningful experiences that meet the sophisticated needs of the MICE industry. It is in line with our vision "Meet in Thailand, Your Success, Your Moment" campaign, where the 3M elements — Maximization, Meaningful, and Memorable — will help planners unlock new potential in Thailand." Highlights of TIME 2025 Bangkok–Hua Hin City Pairing: The city-pairing destination, Bangkok–Hua Hin, was designed to demonstrate the possibility of well-connected destinations in one trip. Delegates experienced a dynamic blend of the capital's urban energy and Hua Hin's coastal charm. The pinnacle was the Royal Blossom Train Ride from Hua Hin to Bangkok. Operated by the State Railway of Thailand, this exclusive service became a memorable experience as it offered amenities such as retractable wide seats, USB ports, worktables, a small bar, elegant interiors, large windows for scenic views and space for networking, activities or relaxation. Wellness-Focused Programming: Recognizing the growing demand for memorable and meaningful well-being in business travel, TCEB featured: Diverse and Unconventional Venues: Enhanced venue options tailored to diverse business needs included: Cultural and Community Immersion CSR Contribution: Reinforcing TCEB's commitment to community impact, well-balanced and meaningful programme, TIME 2025 included a CSR initiative to make where delegates donated sports equipment, school supplies, stationery, and bicycles to the Education Division of Cha-am Municipality in Phetchaburi Province, supporting local youth and education access. Thailand MICE – Meet the Magic About TCEB A LEADING AGENCY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THAILAND'S MICE INDUSTRY Established in 2004, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB – the government agency under the supervision of the Prime Minister – has been assigned a role to promote, support and develop business events industry – corporate meetings, incentive trips, conventions, exhibitions, mega events and world festivals. Serving as a strategic partner, TCEB helps deliver creative ideas and solutions to bring success and fulfill the requirements of business events. The overarching goal is to drive Thailand to become a global MICE and mega events destination that can drive the country's strategic industries and national economy.


Korea Herald
09-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Thailand makes "New High" in Convention Destination Ranking
Bangkok makes big leap to world's 7th spot, 13 Thai cities make entry in ranking table BANGKOK, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thailand becomes the top convention destination of the ASEAN region, according to ICCA Country & City Rankings for 2024 Report. A "New High" is achieved when Bangkok exhibits its best performance, ascending to the world's 7 th spot as a city destination for international conventions, a big leap from the 15 th place in 2023, while a total of 13 Thai cities make entry to the ranking table, the highest number the country has ever achieved. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) announced the release of ICCA's latest GlobeWatch Business Analytics – Country & City Rankings for 2024 at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 in Germany. The comprehensive report analyses data from over 11,000 conferences held globally in 2024, highlighting Asia's prominent status as the second most popular region for international meetings, following Europe. According to the report, Thailand hosted a total of 158 international conventions, an increase from 143 in 2023. The number resulted in Thailand moving from the world's 26 th spot in 2023 to the 25 th place in 2024, clinching the 5 th place in Asia Pacific and claiming the number one spot in the ASEAN or Southeast Asian region. The best ever performance is Bangkok. Hosting a total of 115 international conventions, the Thai capital rises to the world's 7 th spot as a city destination, a remarkable increase from the 15 th place in 2023. In Asia Pacific, Bangkok is ranked 3 rd and 2 nd in the ASEAN region. The leading position of Bangkok is reiterated when Cvent also announced in IMEX Frankfurt 2025 its list of 2025 Top Meeting Destinations. For Asia Pacific region, Bangkok is ranked 2 nd after Singapore. The result is based on more than $18B of global sourcing and request-for-proposal (RFP) activity through Cvent's sourcing platforms in 2024, including a record-breaking $16.5B through the Cvent Supplier Network, one of the world's largest venue sourcing marketplaces. Another best ever performance of Thailand is that it is the first time that a high number of 13 Thai cities are listed in ICCA report. Apart from Bangkok, the 12 cities are Chiang Mai (12 conventions), Pattaya (10), Phuket (8), Chon Buri (3), Chiang Rai (2), Pathum Thani (2), Hua Hin (1), Khon Kaen (1), Samui (1), Nakhon Ratchasima (1), Nonthaburi (1) and Pattani (1). Mr. Puripan Bunnag, Senior Vice President and Acting President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), remarked that: "We are delighted with the overall performance of Thailand, especially Bangkok which made a noticeable rise in the ranking. In this respect, we feel grateful for international professional associations for their trust and confidence in Bangkok. It will further inspire the city and Thai MICE industry to deliver their best to maintain or upgrade their operating standards to meet the evolving needs of the market." TCEB is also proud of the total 13 cities listed in ICCA statistical table, representing the best performance of city diversification the country has ever achieved. It is a strong sign of Thailand's enhanced capacities for conferences. International associations and bodies can now maximize richer choices of locations in Thailand. Each city has their unique cultural setting, which can be crafted to deliver meaningful and memorable experiences for delegates. The establishment of TCEB regional offices in all key regions has now played a part in driving the cities in each region to tap into MICE market and inspiring them to have a position in the map of MICE industry. TCEB believes the result in the ICCA ranking table will be a substantial push factor for Thai cities to elevate themselves to another height, said Mr. Puripan. Thailand MICE – Meet the Magic About TCEB A LEADING AGENCY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THAILAND'S MICE INDUSTRY Established in 2004, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB – the government agency under the supervision of the Prime Minister – has been assigned a role to promote, support and develop business events industry – corporate meetings, incentive trips, conventions, exhibitions, mega events and world festivals. Serving as a strategic partner, TCEB helps deliver creative ideas and solutions to bring success and fulfill the requirements of business events. The overarching goal is to drive Thailand to become a global MICE and mega events destination that can drive the country's strategic industries and national economy.


Korea Herald
23-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
TCEB Unveils "3M" for Business Events at IMEX Frankfurt 2025
BANGKOK, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) makes a presence at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 with a debut of an initiative "Meet in Thailand: Your Success, Your Moment", offering 3M elements to generate higher value for events. The debut is made during TCEB press conference on May 20, led by Mr. Puripan Bunnag, TCEB Senior Vice President. Mr. Puripan stated: "TCEB is always dedicated to making offerings that meet shifting demands of business world, so that holding events in Thailand can deliver higher value, better return on investment and greater return on experiences. After working in partnership with our stakeholders to overcome economic challenges, we have finally crafted "Meet in Thailand, Your Success, Your Moment" entailing 3M elements - MaxiMICE, Meaningful, Memorable – to offer upgraded resources and new ingredients in Thailand that will give a definition of events in a new light". MaxiIMICE – This idea is to invite clients to explore and maximise new development of products and services or enhanced and upgraded offerings in Thailand. They range from enhanced accessibility due to increased flights, more capable and potential city destinations, new investment in properties, growth of unconventional venues, larger pool of qualified MICE manpower and standard-certified enterprises, richer options of localised experiences to stronger government support. Meaningful – This idea is partly derived from TCEB's policy to advance the performance of MICE industry under the framework of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG). It offers clients possibilities of making more purposeful events with measurable impacts. Spotlighting on sustainability, Thailand has developed low carbon MICE routes, MICE suppliers certified with sustainable event management, professional bodies in designing, auditing and verifying sustainable performance of events. Furthermore, there are choices of activities designed to involve and benefit local communities in every MICE City and other potential destinations across the country. Memorable - With strong hospitability, adaptability and wealthy cultural assets, Thailand is always in fit state to deliver return on experiences. Thanks to extensive network of stakeholders in the creative sector, event designers, local communities keen in the MICE industry and tech entrepreneurs, Thailand can help clients craft the events with unique cultural immersion and fusion, finely blended business and leisure, tech-driven execution, contribution to local communities, plus a sense of human touch that will make enduring memory. Apart from 3M initiative, TCEB also presented major updates on Thailand's MICE landscape comprising: 15 events from associations and corporations in Europe and the UK landing in Thailand, all 8 major convention and exhibition centers in Bangkok and its suburb being connected directly with BTS Sky Train and MRT Underground Train in May this year, Air France starting direct flights between Paris and Phuket in November 2025 and TCEB support schemes for business events and festivals. Mr. Puripan added that next year in 2026 will be MICE Celebration Year to resonate with Thailand being selected to host a series of important events. Some key ones are International Horticultural Exposition 2026 (Udon Thani Expo), World Congress on Pain, Annual Meeting of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund, Global Sustainable Tourism Conference, UFI Asia Pacific Congress. Such large-scale events are a strong indicator of international confidence in Thailand's readiness and potential to make events a success. About TCEB A LEADING AGENCY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THAILAND'S MICE INDUSTRY Established in 2004, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB – the government agency under the supervision of the Prime Minister – has been assigned a role to promote, support and develop business events industry – corporate meetings, incentive trips, conventions, exhibitions, mega events and world festivals. Serving as a strategic partner, TCEB helps deliver creative ideas and solutions to bring success and fulfill the requirements of business events. The overarching goal is to drive Thailand to become a global MICE and mega events destination that can drive the country's strategic industries and national economy.