Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry suffered revenue losses estimated at 3.32 billion baht (£60 million) as a result of the country’s floods at the end of 2011.
There were 24 events cancelled and 250,800 fewer MICE visitors due to the extent of the flooding. Eight international trade shows were also postponed. At the same time, several key MICE areas were unaffected, including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Had Yai.
“It’s important to note that many scheduled events have been completely unaffected,” said Akapol Sorasuchart, president of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. He said key events going ahead as planned this year include the 2012 Rotary International Convention in May, which will bring in 30,000 visitors.
“Immediate short-term measures will focus on setting up a one-stop-centre to assist MICE travellers and facilitate the provision of daily updates to the industry and all stakeholders,” said Sorasuchart. “Our MICE industry should be looking up towards the end of the first quarter of 2012.”