An Overview and Identification of Barriers Affecting the Meeting and Convention Industry in Thailand

Abstract

Thailand's meeting and convention industry has developed dramatically over the last decade. Interest in the industry has grown, and competition has intensified in the marketplace due to the significant contributions to the local and national economies. Yet, there is a paucity of research exploring Thailand's meeting and convention industry. This article provides an overview of Thailand's meeting and convention industry and identifies strategies that can improve the country's competitiveness. Using primary and secondary data approaches, major barriers are identified, namely, availability of industry information, industry infrastructure (i.e., convention venues, transportation), human resources, industry cooperation, and political instability. Recommendations are proposed to increase the competitiveness of the industry.

Perceived Attributes of Event Sustainability in the MICE Industry in Thailand: A Viewpoint from Governmental, Academic, Venue and Practitioner

“…These events have been frequently reported by the international media and other secondary information sources, and are among the major factors making Thailand a less attractive destination [38,55]. Indeed, the political stability of the host nation is a very important point of consideration for international MICE organizations [38,56]. The government should take full responsibility and conduct appropriate action to avoid a worsening of crises [38].…”

“…Indeed, the political stability of the host nation is a very important point of consideration for international MICE organizations [38,56]. The government should take full responsibility and conduct appropriate action to avoid a worsening of crises [38]. Additionally, widely recognized certification schemes, along with industry partnerships, operate as stimuli to many stakeholders, encouraging them to participate in green-friendly practices [50].…”

“…While including all of the elements comprised in programs such as the Green Globe Certification may not be feasible, convention and meeting venues, as well as meeting planners, should consider incorporating as many sustainable practices as they reasonably cane [18]. These plans, beginning from information-based approaches and moving to action-based approaches, could be applied to the case of Thailand to help prepare for concerned parties to take appropriate actions and building confidence among international prospects [38].…”

“…Respondents noted that the policy of the country is, in fact, a barrier to solving problems [32,38]. However, in order to maximize on the value that successful sustainable event marketing can bring to the country, the government and industry operators should work to avoid any unnecessary impediments to the processes.…”

The Augmented Convention Offering: The Impact of Destination and Product Images on Attendees' Perceived Benefits

“…Abstract and Keywords.docx In order to benefit from the significant economic impact of the growing MICE industry, the governments of Asian countries are making large investments in MICE infrastructure and business development (Kim, Yoon, & Kim, 2011;Sangpikul & Kim, 2009). These investments are made for two main reasons.…”