The Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2023, the country’s prestigious B2B travel show, commenced today, signalling a new era of business opportunities for global buyers seeking unique and meaningful travel experiences within Thailand and the ASEAN region. As the premier showcase of Thai tourism, this year’s TTM+ focuses on reinforcing the industry’s ongoing efforts towards sustainable travel.
Under the captivating theme “Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters,” the TTM+ 2023 aligns with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) strategy to promote meaningful travel experiences and distribute tourism revenue nationwide. By leveraging Thailand’s 5F soft-power foundations – Food, Film, Festival, Fight, and Fashion – the event aims to establish sustainability while enhancing the tourism supply chain.
H.E. Mr Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports
The impressive growth of the tourism industry is evident at TTM+ 2023, with a record number of participants. The event hosts 374 buyers from 50 countries, showcasing 435 booths of high-quality sellers across Thailand and the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). Furthermore, 112 media representatives from overseas and within Thailand are in attendance, further amplifying the event’s significance.
During the opening ceremony, H.E. Mr Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, emphasized the event’s significance by stating, “The TTM Plus 2023 is a showcase of the Amazing New Chapters of Thailand’s tourism towards sustainability and being a quality destination. The event fosters long-lasting business relationships and highlights the adoption of sustainable standards, technology, and soft Thai powers to transform Thailand’s tourism sector.”
After being held in Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket in previous years as part of TAT’s provincial promotion strategy, the TTM+ has returned to Bangkok. This shift allows overseas buyers and media to experience the growth of facilities, infrastructure, and business prospects that Bangkok has to offer now that the travel and tourism industry has returned to normal.
From May 31 to June 2, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok served as the venue for the TTM+ 2023. The opening day program featured updates on Thailand’s tourism products, TTM Talk sessions, and a Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) product update presented by Cambodia. Notably, the TTM Talk focused on “Building A Sustainable Future for Tourism with Innovation Technology” and was presented by Google Cloud Thailand.
Mr Tanes Petsuwan, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific, emphasized the significance of the TTM+, stating, “The TTM Plus is one of Thailand’s most significant B2B travel trade events and has gained its own reputation as a ‘must-attend’ on the annual travel trade calendar. This year’s event, marking its 20th edition, solidifies Thailand’s market position and promotes travel within the ASEAN region.”
The Thailand Pavilion at TTM+ 2023 is a focal point for business negotiations and underpins the country’s commitment to sustainability through technology, digital transformation, and eco-friendly practices. In addition to dedicated booths for “Technology” and “Net Zero Tourism,” the TAT’s pavilion showcases unique tourism-related products. It hosts interactive DIY workshops, offering a glimpse into the meaningful travel experiences available in Thailand. Attendees can also enjoy an exhibition and tasting of seasonal fruits and demonstrations of brewing organic coffee, which is expertly paired with delectable Thai dessert finger food.
Aligned with the event’s theme, half-day pre-tours highlight Bangkok’s responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives. At the same time, the post-tours are tailor-made to showcase meaningful travel experiences encompassing gastronomy, the local way of life, and traditional wisdom across all five regions of Thailand.
The TTM+ 2023 is a testament to Thailand’s commitment to revolutionizing its tourism industry towards sustainability and offering travellers unique and impactful experiences. With an emphasis on meaningful travel, technological advancements, and eco-conscious practices, Thailand is set to captivate visitors seeking unforgettable adventures while preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
