Thursday, June 26, 2025
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially launched the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2025, taking place from June 4 to June 6 in Chiang Mai. This year’s event has a strong emphasis on sustainability, the growth of Thailand’s soft power, and digital transformation in tourism. With a spotlight on responsible tourism and cultural exchange, TTM+ 2025 provides a unique opportunity for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) professionals to engage with new ideas, innovative solutions, and global business prospects.
Minister of Tourism and Sports, Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, commented, “TTM+ 2025 is more than just a tourism event; it’s a transformative platform for MICE professionals to explore sustainable business practices, cultural diplomacy, and cutting-edge technologies in the tourism sector. This event is a catalyst for local businesses to expand their international reach while promoting Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.”
The opening ceremony, which was presided over by Minister Sorawong and TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, marked the beginning of a three-day event dedicated to reshaping Thailand’s tourism landscape. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, tourism executives, and international media, to discuss the strategic importance of MICE tourism in Thailand’s future growth.
Strategic MICE Opportunities in TTM+ 2025
In its 22nd edition, TTM+ 2025 offers a comprehensive programme designed to facilitate business and networking opportunities for MICE professionals. The event begins with curated Pre-Tours and the Thailand Product Update, followed by TTM Talk and dedicated business meetings. Attendees can connect through networking lunches, business appointments, and cultural experiences such as the signature “Chiang Mai Night.” These interactions are designed to foster new partnerships and ideas, helping Thai businesses compete on the international MICE stage.
A key highlight for MICE professionals is the return of TTM Talk, which this year explores the theme “The Soul of Thailand: 3F Essentials.” This session delves into Thailand’s unique cultural assets, focusing on the culinary arts, holistic wellness, and traditional textiles, offering valuable insights for MICE planners looking to incorporate these elements into their events and programs. Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, Deputy Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, led discussions that explore the growing role of Thai soft power in international markets, enhancing the global appeal of Thailand as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.
Global Reach and Networking Potential
TTM+ 2025 is welcoming 406 international buyers from key global markets, including Europe, East and Southeast Asia, the Americas, Australia, and emerging regions like Eastern Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Southern Africa. Notably, 143 of the attendees are first-time buyers, representing a significant 35.27% of the total. Buyers include top MICE professionals such as outbound tour operators, travel agents, and representatives from OTAs and airlines, all selected for their ability to promote Thailand in diverse international markets.
The event is also attracting 450 Thai tourism operators, an increase of 4.65% from 2024. Among the exhibitors are 50 winners of the Thailand Tourism Awards and 30 representatives from lesser-known destinations, providing MICE professionals with a comprehensive view of Thailand’s tourism offerings. In addition, 134 exhibitors are certified under TAT’s STAR programme for sustainable tourism, while 51 are recognized under the CF Hotels initiative for their commitment to sustainability.
Expanding MICE Partnerships Regionally and Globally
In line with its focus on regional cooperation, TAT has invited National Tourist Organizations (NTOs) from the Greater Mekong Subregion, Southeast Asia, and select provinces in China, creating new opportunities for MICE professionals to explore cross-border partnerships. TTM+ 2025 also attracts 117 media representatives from both Thailand and abroad, highlighting Chiang Mai’s role as a global storytelling and innovation hub for the MICE sector.
TAT anticipates that TTM+ 2025 will generate more than 13,000 business appointments and result in an impressive 4.29 billion Baht in tourism revenue, benefiting MICE professionals seeking new business opportunities in Thailand’s dynamic market. Beyond the commercial aspects, the event aims to leave a lasting, positive impact on Thailand’s MICE ecosystem by creating a more sustainable and innovative tourism model.
A Focus on Sustainability in MICE Tourism
Sustainability continues to be a cornerstone of TTM+ 2025. This year’s event has achieved Carbon Neutral certification, with support from the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA). Emissions are meticulously measured and offset, and waste management practices include sorting, recycling, and donation of surplus food and materials to local communities. The use of bamboo installations and repurposing event furniture for schools demonstrates Thailand’s leadership in sustainable MICE practices.
Additionally, 110 hotels participating in TTM+ 2025 are certified under the Carbon Footprint Hotels (CF-Hotels) platform, ensuring that MICE professionals have access to sustainable accommodations during their stay.
The Travel Tech zone is another highlight, featuring AI-powered solutions like Smart Business AI by TAT, the TATAI tourism data system, the TAGTHAi travel app, and interactive AR maps. These digital innovations provide MICE professionals with next-generation tools to enhance their operations, optimize event planning, and improve attendee engagement.
A Vision for the Future of Thai MICE Tourism
“TTM+ 2025 drives momentum within the MICE tourism ecosystem by creating a nexus of opportunity, action, and collaboration,” said TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. “It’s about more than just business transactions; it’s about connecting people and ideas, empowering Thai SMEs, and providing MICE professionals with the tools they need to succeed on a global scale.”
As Thailand continues to evolve as a top MICE destination, TTM+ 2025 stands as a powerful platform for sustainable business growth, international collaboration, and the promotion of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. For MICE professionals, this event offers an invaluable opportunity to discover new business opportunities, forge lasting partnerships, and contribute to the future of sustainable tourism.
Comments: