International Convention and Exhibition Center in Chiang Mai to Help Develop the MICE Business

(02/01/2013)

A world-class convention and exhibition center being built just outside the northern city of Chiang Mai will help boost Thailand’s meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) business. The Government intends to develop Chiang Mai into a “MICE City” in the ASEAN region and use the center to stimulate the local economy. The Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center Commemorating His Majesty’s 7th Cycle Birthday Anniversary, also known as the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center, has been established as part of the celebrations of His Majesty the King’s seventh cycle, or 84th, birthday anniversary in 2011. Construction of the center will be completed in March 2013. When it is finished, the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center will become the largest convention center in Southeast Asia. Deputy Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports Seksan Narkwong said that the center would accommodate a growing number of visitors after the realization of the ASEAN Community in the next two years. Its operations would also respond to the Government’s policy to achieve the tourism revenue target of two trillion baht by 2015. Located in Chang Phuak subdistrict, Mueang district, the center covers an area of 521,600 square meters and can seat up to 10,000 participants. About three billion baht has been used to construct the center, which is a 10-minute drive from the city of Chiang Mai. Various facilities will be offered, such as WiFi Internet, a business center, a post-office, a prayer room for Muslims, a food center, restaurants, VIP rooms, a first-aid room, convenience stores, souvenir shops, and ATM booths. The Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center will also host various events, such as concerts and other cultural shows. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports believes that the center would help expand the MICE industry in Chiang Mai by 10 percent a year. A proposal has been made for linking the center with Chiang Night Safari and the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek, in terms of marketing. It is expected that the first activity will be held at this center in May 2013. Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul revealed that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment would host the Asia-Pacific Water Summit at the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center in June 2013. The next Asia Cooperation Dialogue will take place at this center, as well, in 2015. Recognized as a regional aviation hub for the Greater Mekong Subregion, Chiang Mai is now a popular long-stay destination, a medical tourism center, and an education hub. It is rich in culture and traditions and boasts numerous tourist attractions that have become a magnet for both local and international visitors.