Thailand Executes New Global Attribute, Connecting Opportunities for Business Event in Asia

In 2013, Thailand is expected to welcome approximately 940,000 MICE visitors to the country, generating expected revenues of 88 Billion Baht and expected to maintain the European market at approximately 80,000 MICE visitors as well as the UK market at around 8,000 MICE visitors.# # #Media Contacts:Thailand Convention and Exhibition BureauArisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thSumet KanchanapanTel: +662 694 6096Email: sumet_k@tceb.or.thLONDON/ UK: 16 May 2013 – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) lure the UK- lucrative MICE market with its government-back road show. TCEB will showcase Thailand as a gateway for UK MICE professionals to extend their reach and penetrate the Asian market. New destination’s image will be unleashed under country’s new unique attribute, THAILAND: Connecting Opportunities for Business Events in Asia.Speaking at the road show, Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Director of Exhibition of TCEB, said “Europe is a vital source for Thailand’s MICE industry. In 2012, over 77,308 European MICE delegates visited Thailand, with UK, Germany, France, Netherland and Spain ranking the highest. In all, the EU accounts for almost 11 per cent of Thailand’s total MICE market, with accumulated to 7 billion baht revenues in 2013.” Speaking at the road show, Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Director of Exhibition of TCEB, said “Europe is a vital source for Thailand’s MICE industry. In 2012, over 77,308 European MICE delegates visited Thailand, with UK, Germany, France, Netherland and Spain ranking the highest. In all, the EU accounts for almost 11 per cent of Thailand’s total MICE market, with accumulated to 7 billion baht revenues in 2013.”UK is a very robust economy. The UK is the best-know in Thailand for all the European countries. It has either been a key business partner or the largest investor and a vital source of investment in Thailand. At present, Thailand and the United Kingdom enjoy strong economic links. The value of bilateral trade was 196.9 Billion Baht last year. Many companies have invested in Thailand, and there have been a growing number of Thai companies coming to the United Kingdom.In accordance to the recent visited of Thailand’s Prime Minister Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra following British Prime Minister Davis Cameron’s Invitation, she had been granted the audience with Queen Elizabeth and was aimed at promoting strategic partnership between the two countries, to strengthen cordial relations, pushed forward Strategic Dialogue between two countries, and build confidence upon Thailand.“Thailand is attracting more and more events organised specifically for the region, and beyond and as such is already emerging as a regional hub for business events of all kinds. Business travellers from across the globe, but particularly from Europe, come to Thailand to take advantage of world-class facilities set amidst stunning landscapes. With modern infrastructure, superb hotels and a wide choice of dedicated event venues, Thailand’s MICE industry has an impressive record of growth. The Thai government therefore plans to extend support for all categories and scales of business events as well as further utilize the business event as a vital platform to extend more opportunities in terms of business and trade value to the companies and delegates”, revealed Supawan.THAILAND: Connecting Opportunities for Business Events in Asia, the country’s new unique attribute has been announced the world premiere in London, the United Kingdom, prior to launch in European market at IMEX 2013 in Frankfurt, Germany. The business travellers and MICE professionals will enhance their prospect in Thailand’s business events through 5 dimentions;1) Strategic Location to Asian MICE Market - Thailand is a natural springboard to Southeast Asia, where newly emerging markets offer unprecedented business potential. The formation of the AEC in 2015 will take this positioning to a whole new dimension, when the 10 member states of ASEAN will become a single market with free flow of goods, services, skilled labour and investment. And of course this carries tremendous implications, and overall we expect a major boost to regional trade across all economic sectors. Apart from the 10 ASEAN countries and its 600 million people, Thailand is also a perfect base to trade with the fast-growing markets of India, China and Australia, with which Thailand enjoys strong cultural and economic ties2) Free Trade Agreement Policy - Thailand is party to 11 bilateral free trade agreements with countries both in Asia and around the world. This helps to explain why Thailand is emerging as a unique trade hub in one of the fastest, most stable-growing parts of the global economy, attracting unprecedented levels of foreign investment.3) World Class Industries and Market Recognition - Last year Thailand was ranked as the world’s largest producer of natural rubber and cassava, and one of the top 10 global manufacturers of vehicles and parts. In addition, Thailand is ASEAN’s second largest economy with key exports include vehicle parts and accessories, computers, refined fuel, rubber and plastics.4) Home of World Business Events - To ensure Thailand’s positioning as home to world’s business events, in 2013, Thailand will host a series of mega events, including the ITU Telecom World 2013 with approximately 20,000 delegates, Herbalife Extravaganza with 18,000 attendees, ProHealth China Convention, with an expected attendance of approximately 10,000 participants, and the World Stamp Thailand 2013 with an expected 10,000 visitors. All these events attest to Thailand’s ability to deliver world-class event outcomes.5) Government Collaborations and Supports for Business Events Success - As part of TCEB’s role in attracting, supporting and facilitating international events held in Thailand, we provide services such as bidding and marketing support, B2B business matching platforms, government and private sector connectors, and event planning and consultancy. At TCEB, we can also help you enrich your event with cultural performances, team building activities, as well as specialist themed meeting packages such as green meetings, golf, spa, CSR, and the list goes on. For event organisers, we can help organise site inspection packages and develop customized promotional packages, fam trips and promotional materials to directly target your markets. And all this is supported by TCEB’s extensive database, business events intelligence, online library, market reports and of course, for your convenience, fast track clearance for delegates at Suvarnabhumi International Airport.“Business opportunities in Thailand and Asia are made available through Thailand’s vibrant business events platform. We also want to use the growing trade and tourism link to convince the United Kingdom MICE professionals to hold business event on Thai soil. With Thailand’s new attribute, we hope that UK MICE professional will link up and connect with our Thai counterparts and promote further trade and business events activities between our two countries,” left Supawan

TCEB Names New President “NOPPARAT MAYTHAVEEKULCHAI”, Moving on with 5 Policies to Generate Revenue from MICE As the Nation’s Major Income

Bangkok / 29 May 2013 – TCEB announces the appointment of Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai as the new president of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and his management vision. The president is prompted to implement the existing 5-Year Strategy that highlights 5 policies designed to emphasise the commitment between public and private sectors to produce more practical results in a positive way. Aiming at enhancing public image of TCEB and attract mega-sized events, the bureau will move forward using strategic marketing plans. In order to generate revenue and serve as an essential mechanism that strengthens Thai economy, MICE information centres will also be promoted for the advancement of meetings and incentives industry or MICE.Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, TCEB President, disclosed that, “I am glad and honoured to be one of executives considered by TCEB as having right qualifications and eventually met the criteria for the position of TCEB president. Personally, I possess more than 10 years of experience in working and managing organisation with additional interest in the happenings of MICE industry. In my opinion, MICE is the rising star among global trend with no less than 10-15% growth each year. The industry has been able to generate over 80,000 million baht annually. Furthermore, my past experience could help in terms of coordinating with international organisations to drive Thai MICE to global stage. Particularly, the representation of Thailand as the destination for MICE in Asian region and the pooling of international-scale mega events into Thailand,”Directions and the management policy of TCEB and MICE industry under the vision of TCEB President Nopparat will include the implementation of International Meetings and Conventions Industry Plan, 2012-2016 that specifically accentuates 5 policies designed to raise Thai MICE industry to grow shoulder to shoulder with international competitors before stepping into the AEC in 2016.Mr. Nopparat added that, “In enhancing the growth and driving the industry forward rapidly, there are 5 policies I believe are important as they are the foundation for the integration of the whole MICE system. First policy focuses on the establishment of coordination between public and private sectors in driving Thai MICE industry forward. Definitely, TCEB is unable to operate at its best without supports from public and private sectors. In my part, I would concentrate in Thai-style teamwork by which members join to pool events into Thailand and help promote Thai MICE. Brainstorming symposiums will be held jointly with public and private sectors to pave the way for the betterment of MICE industry by having relevant parties coordinated to design plans for marketing, public relations and industry progression.Second policy includes the enhancement of TCEB’s public image. The policy emphasises the creation of awareness of the bureau’s image among public. By relying on the development of information technology designed for digital MICE marketing which will be used as communication means for MICE target markets worldwide, the channel will be perpetually packed full with interesting contents and important updates. It will also serve as an essential element in creating more awareness as once TCEB is recognised in a wider circle, the liaison with alliances orappeals for assistance from other organisations or general public could be made easier and faster. These in turn will result in good impression that international MICE travellers will be receiving.Third policy embraces the pooling of mega projects into Thailand. The achievement of this policy is dependent on the region for which such mega project is being held. Nevertheless, entrepreneurs and public sectors must operate jointly in a systematic way to make MICE destinations and attractions nationwide safe, convenient and well-provided with quality food. These factors are considered important in pooling mega projects into the country. Moreover, all sectors must hasten the development of basic infrastructure and telecommunication network, such as mass transit train and the extension of high-speed telecommunication system.Fourth policy involves strategic marketing. Building strength in marketing is crucial, ranging from creating new marketing channels, integrating database for the achievement of mission to establishing comprehensive MICE information centres. From now on, TCEB will explore target markets by recruiting alliances as well as initiate rapport with public and private sectors, such as Ministry of Tourism & Sports, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Airways International, in jointly creating marketing promotion plans for MICE on international scale. For example, the existing “OptiMICE Pass Package” campaign that TCEB and Thai Airways joined together to explore MICE market in Singapore.Fifth policy is the development of MICE Intelligence Center. Global village is now living the era of information which tremendously affect the advancement and promotion of business. TCEB must seek for our standing point and enhance service on which every sector can rely. Implementation and progression of this segment are important elements that could make the difference and well serve as supporter for public and private sectors, as well as Thai MICE industry.“My mission concerns the rise of Thai MICE as the industry that generates major revenue for Thailand just after the tourism industry. The “Partner-Centric” notion is what TCEB has counted on from the right start. This philosophy plays important role in determining success which can be evaluated via “figure” of the revenue. Imagine if MICE industry brings MICE travellers from all over the world into Thailand and could generate major revenue for the country, all sectors of the society will recognise the importance of MICE and, hence, provide fullest support they could. TCEB has foreseen that Thai MICE industry will multiply its value to 88,000 million baht in 2013, while numbers of MICE travellers could reach 940,000. However, the growth must be witnessed from increased revenue, side by side with the quality of facilities and service, as well as the conservation of natural resources and environment.” concluded Mr. Nopparat.Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai has been named the president of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) by the consensus of board members of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau on 20 March 2013. The appointment became official on 16 May 2013. Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai has 10 years of experience in organisation management. He started his career at TOT Public Company Limited (formerly the Telephone Organization of Thailand) and continued to progress from 1983-2013. His latest position was the executive vice-president of TOT Plc.# # #For more information please contact;Corporate Communications Division, Marketing Communication DepartmentThailand Convention & Exhibition BureauMs. Arisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr. Pishnu PlaikaewTel: +66 2 694 6000 ext 3014Email: pishnu_p@tceb.or.th

MYANMAR-THAILAND EXHIBITION INDUSTRY GET A BOOST AT TCEB ROAD SHOW IN YANGON

Yangon/ 20 May 2013 – Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) in collaboration with Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) organized the first official roadshow to promote business opportunities and enhance relationships to establish network in exhibition industry between the 2 countries. The roadshow is also supported by The Royal Thai Embassy, Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), and Myanmar Tourism Federation. Held in Yangon, Myanmar, the roadshow is the platform to illustrate how Thailand’s exhibition industry can help Myanmar businessmen to explore and tap into more regional business opportunities as well as the business matching session to discuss and explore business opportunities between Myanmar Associations and Federations with 10 leading local and international trade show organizers who organize high profile tradeshows in Thailand.Ms. Supawan Teerarat, TCEB’s Exhibition Director, said, “Located in the world’s fastest growing region, Myanmar and Thailand have been now entering to a more challenging time when collaboration especially in trade relations development, and technology exchanges are the crucial forces for the sustainable business growth. TCEB Exhibition have committed to take a role in facilitating and connecting businesses of Myanmar and Thailand to the new opportunities available through exhibition and trade shows to be held in Thailand. As such, the participation in trade shows organized in Thailand will bring not only the networking opportunities with Thai businessmen but also with regional stakeholders at both government-to-government and business-to-business level. This will open up Myanmar businesses to increase their trading value through Thailand’s exhibition platform”.Thailand’s exhibition industry marks the highest growth in ASEAN in terms of number of exhibition space sold and the top 10 visitors and exhibitors are from ASEAN and Asia countries. The country has been driving the businesses in the region in terms of number of trade fairs identified, estimated annual size, average size per fair and estimated annual revenue. On top of the benefits of being a center of ASEAN and geographically proximity to Myanmar, Myanmar can enjoy the trading and commerce opportunities not only between Thailand-Myanmar but also among ASEAN countries and international counterparts for the sourcing of new technology, knowledge, and trade on Thailand vibrant exhibition platform.According to the latest statistics compiled by UFI, the exhibitions industry of Thailand continues to lead rivals in ASEAN with total of value of 132 million US dollars gained through 75 events, putting Thailand above competitors in the region. Furthermore, Thailand has maintained the leadership in the exhibitions industry of ASEAN in other aspects, such as the exhibition space net square meters sold totaling up to 462,500 square meters, as well as having eight well-equipped exhibition venues which are well-recognized by UFI.Trade relations between the two countries have long been established with Thailand as the top three international trade partners of Myanmar. According to the statistics reported by Thailand’s Department of Foreign Trade, the trade volume between the two countries in 2012 was approximately 7,287 million US dollars* (211,345.96 million baht), a 9.85 percent higher than 2011. In the first two months of 2013, trade between the two countries already reached 1,326 million US dollars* (38,477.83 million baht) or 64.88 percent compared to the same period in 2011.“As ASEAN is moving towards a full integration in 2015, a lot more opportunities are waiting for us. We fully hope that this road show would be a good beginning of a brighter future for Thailand and Myanmar bilateral trade and exhibition industry. The collaboration with TCEB will help bridge Myanmar businessmen and members of UMFCCI to explore more regional business opportunities as well as to network and get first-handed information with trade show organizers through the business matching sessions.” said Mr. U Win Aung, President of UMFCCI.With the underlining of 5 real demand sectors of ASEAN including Transport, ICT, Energy, Education and Culture, and Tourism, these have nurtured Thailand’s competitive advantage on its key highlight industries. Thailand’s 8 key highlight industries comprise of automobile & auto parts, machinery, food and agriculture, tourism, medical, Jewelry, construction & architect, Energy, and ICT. These are the fundamental industries that drive the nation’s economy where International Trade Shows being held in Thailand are the key driver.“At our Business Forum on 21 May in Yangon, TCEB is accompanied by some of the leading trade show organizers from Thailand which organize many different highlighted international exhibitions including Reed Tradex Company, N.C.C. Exhibition Organizer, VNU Exhibition Asia-Pacific, Bangkok Exhibition Services, Kavin Intertrade, Global Exhibition Services, Messe Dusseldorf, UBM Asia, IMPACT Exhibition Management, and ASEAN Trade Promotion Association. We believe that the Panel Discussion at Business Forum with these top-tier organizers will provide best advantage to Myanmar businessmen, associations, federations who are looking for business expansion through Thailand’s exhibition platform,” added Mrs. Supawan.Thailand is home to a wide range of international trade shows where some are the flagship trade shows in ASEAN. These trade shows also serve as trading market place and respond to the growing industries of Myanmar including Food & Agricultural, Hospitality & Services, Medical & Healthcare, and Machinery. To name a few, the trade shows include Metalex, Intermach for the machinery industry; Food & Hotel Thailand, ISRMAX Asia, Horti Asia for the food and agriculture industry; Thailand Travel & Dive Expo, Pool & Spa Tech Asia, ASEAN (Bangkok) China Commodity Fair, TFBO & TRAFS for the Hospitality & Services industry; Thailand Lab, Medical Fair Thailand, Elderly Care for the medical & healthcare industry.“All trade shows under these 4 industries will be a good platform for the Myanmar in 3 key areas: for exploring new business opportunities, for increasing trading value, and for prospective mutual benefit in the future. Moreover, TCEB also has prepared a special group-visitor incentive program called “100 A-HEAD”, for Myanmar trade promoters/associations/federation/chamber of commerce. 100-A-HEAD programme will give a group visitor promoter US$100 for every delegate visiting Thailand when they bring at least qualified 15 people for a minimum stay of 3 days and 2 nights and the “Be My Guest” Buyer’ s appreciation program, which offers complimentary accommodation to key buyers from around the world”, concluded Mrs. Supawan.Myanmar businesses should look no further when considering extending their reach in ASEAN and the world. Additionally, Thailand has been ranked no.1 in ASEAN in exhibition industry; having excellent exhibition facilities, including international airport which supports more than 500 flights per day, connecting to as many as 190 destinations worldwide plus airport-to-city linkage, good-value-for-money in business and leisure, professional service with Thai hospitality and the ease of doing business.In 2013, TCEB’s mission to boost MICE industry to grow by 5-10 percent or equal 940,000 MICE travelers which could generate more than US$ 2.93 billion. Thai exhibition industry is expected to attract 172,600 visitors or 18 percent of the total MICE visitors this year and to achieve 30 percent growth by 2015. With a total number of 545,000 visitors and total revenue of US$ 1,550 million. In 2013, Thailand will host 2 mega events including ITU Telecom World 2013 (19-22 November 2013 at IMPACT) and World Stamp Thailand 2013 (2-14 August, 2013 at Royal Paragon Hall).# # #For more information, please contactThailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization)Strategic & Market – Exhibition DepartmentMs Jaruwan SuwanasartSenior ManagerTel: 0-2694-6032Email: jaruwan_p@tceb.or.thMs Siriwan KamonwichianManagerTel: 0-2694-6038Email: siriwan_k@tceb.or.thPR DepartmentMs Arisara ThanuplangSenior PR ManagerTel: 0-2694-6095Email: Arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr Pishnu PlaikaewPR ManagerTel: 0-26946000 # 3014Email: Pishnu_p@tceb.or.th

Thailand Rolls out Red Carpet to Welcome Largest “Mega-Event” of the Year TCEB Extends Its Support to Herbalife Asia-Pacific Extravaganza 2013

THAILAND, Bangkok, June 14, 2013 Global nutrition company, Herbalife (NYSE: HLF), announces the opening of its Asia Pacific Extravaganza 2013 today, to be held from June 14 to June 16 at Impact Exhibition and Convention Centre, Bangkok. Attended by over 23,000 Herbalife independent distributors from 12 countries in Asia Pacific, the event promises to be the largest mega event in Thailand this year.Extravaganza is Herbalife’s annual regional event for its independent distributors to celebrate their business success, as well as to receive the latest training in products and business building initiatives from Herbalife leaders and nutrition experts.Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) said “We are honored that Herbalife has selected Thailand once again as the venue for its Extravaganza mega event. TCEB as a government agency working under the supervision of the Prime Minister’s Office, has a mission to create long – term competitiveness and sustainable fundamentals for MICE industry in Thailand. It is perfectly in line with our strategy to connect business opportunities in Asia and a testimony to our country’s attractiveness and capabilities to host international gatherings of this magnitude. It underscores our readiness and high potential as a MICE destination in terms of large and modern convention and exhibition centers, as well as world-class infrastructure and facilities.”“As part of its marketing strategy focusing on the Asia MICE market, TCEB has provided its full support to Herbalife’s mega event. In addition to highlighting Thailand’s famed hospitality, renowned cuisine and unique culture, the economic impact of the Herbalife Extravaganza gathering is very significant, with expected revenues for our country of 1,840 million baht (USD 60 million).”Medical Healthcare is one of the key industries that TCEB has identified to further grow Thailand’s MICE market, along with other categories such as automotive and accessories, cosmetics, chemicals, finance and banking, insurance, electronics, electrical appliances and tourism. Total projected MICE industry revenues for 2013 are expected to reach USD 2.91 billion (Baht 88 billion) with up to 940,000 MICE travelers visiting Thailand this year. Therefore we regard the success of this event as an important landmark of Thailand, demonstrating our country’s unique potential and capabilities to host major international business events.” declared Mr Nopparat.This is the 6th time that Herbalife chooses Thailand to host this large-scale gathering of independent distributors from across Asia Pacific, representing Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Macau, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. This year, to facilitate the demand from its ever expanding network of independent distributors, Herbalife is simultaneously holding another two Extravaganzas in Bangalore, India, and Seoul, South Korea. Spanning over the three major Asian cities, the Herbalife Asia Pacific Extravaganza 2013 is expected to attract a record 55,000 distributors, underscoring the growing popularity of the annual event and increasing demand for Herbalife nutrition products from Asian consumers.Mr William M. Rahn, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Herbalife Asia Pacific, said, “The continued growth momentum in Asia Pacific has made it necessary for us to stage our Extravaganza across different countries in Asia to accommodate the needs of the rapidly increasing number of our independent distributors. We have been experiencing consistent double-digit net sales growth in the region over the past five years. Asia Pacific is now Herbalife’s number one region worldwide, representing about 28% of the company’s global revenues in 2012, with net sales of US$ 1.14 billion (THB 34 billion).”“The growth is mainly driven by a strong demand for our nutrition products from the increasingly health-conscious Asian consumers. Obesity and poor nutrition have been prevalent public health problems across the globe, including in many Asia Pacific countries. Together with our distributors, we are proud to be part of the solution as we are well placed to address the problems with our nutrition and weight-management products,” he added.The global nutrition transition has led to a worldwide obesity epidemic recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to WHO, for the first time in human history there are more overweight than undernourished people in the world. In Asia Pacific, according to a report by Euromonitor , several countries are predicted to see among the fastest growth in obesity rates between 2010 and 2020 - the obese and overweight population in Vietnam will increase by 225%, Hong Kong by 178%, India by 100%, South Korea by 80.7%, New Zealand by 52%, and Indonesia by 50% - as rising income leads to consumers adopting convenient Western-style diets and fast food concepts.In Thailand, according to the Thai Ministry of Public Health, the country already ranks in the top five Asia-Pacific nations in terms of the number of obese people. Today, Thailand has over 17 million obese or overweight people, a figure that tends to increase by 4 million people each year.“The Bangkok event is the largest of our three Extravaganzas held in Asia Pacific this year. Conveniently located in the central region of South East Asia with modern infrastructure and rich experience in hosting world-class events, Bangkok is an ideal choice for us to host business events in Asia. We are thankful for the support extended to us by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, which has been a remarkable help in making our Extravaganza event a success.” Mr Rahn concluded.About TCEBThailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) was created as a vibrant, 21st-century, cutting-edge professional organization. TCEB's organizational design, with its flat and agile structure, enables the TCEB team to deliver prompt and superior service, whilst achieving the highest level of operational efficiency and effectiveness. These are essential to Thailand's MICE competitiveness on the regional and global stage. TCEB promotes ethical and responsible business behaviour based on its core values of customer enthusiasm, integrity, teamwork, innovation, continuous improvement, and responsibility. www.tceb.or.th.Follow us on Twitter at: twitter.com/tceb_onlineAbout HerbalifeHerbalife Ltd. (NYSE:HLF) is a global nutrition company that sells weight-management, nutrition, and personal care products intended to support a healthy lifestyle. Herbalife products are sold in more than 80 countries to and through a network of independent distributors. The company supports the Herbalife Family Foundation and its Casa Herbalife program to help bring good nutrition to children. Herbalife's website contains a significant amount of information about Herbalife, including financial and other information for investors at ir.Herbalife.com. The company encourages investors to visit its website from time to time, as information is updated and new information is posted.# # #For media enquiries, kindly contact:Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)Khun Arisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.th<br/>Herbalife Asia PacificDaliea Mohamad-LiauwVP, Corporate Communications, Asia PacificDID: +852 3589 2643Email: dalieal@herbalife.comHerbalife Press Information Servicec/o Francom AsiaKhun Wandee Lerdsupongkit / Khun Pattareeya PakpachaiTel. 02 233 4329/30 Fax 02 2368030Email: pr@francomasia.com

Manufacturing Expo 2013 has been staged for manufacturers and industrialists

Three major exhibitions ‘Manufacturing Expo 2013’ with ‘Nepcon Thailand 2013’ and ‘FurniTech 2013’ was open at BITEC from June 20 to 23, 2013. Reed Tradex Co., Ltd. leading organizer of international trade and conference exhibitions has organized ‘Manufacturing Expo 2013’ and exhibition of machinery and technology for automobile parts manufacturing and assembly operations. More than 55,000 visitors are expected to visit from all over the ASEAN region to see displays from 1,500 leading brands from 30 countries worldwide.‘Manufacturing Expo 2013’ is the exposition of machinery and technology used in manufacturing the whole automobile. This expo has 4 components – Interplas Thailand for plastic and rubber automotive components, Intermold Thailand for manufacturing of mold and dies, Automotive Manufacturing for metal based automotive components, and Assembly Technology shows the use of automation in assembly processes in manufacturing. In the automotive sector the “Automotive Summit” organized by Thailand Automotive Institute has brought speakers like CEO of Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp., Executive from General Motors and from continental Automotive Thailand the major auto parts manufacturer to the summit.A co-located event is Nepcon Thailand 2013, a technology exhibition for electronics parts, one of the Nepcon series held in several centers in Asia including Japan and Malaysia. This year the exhibition is showing new technologies from more than 350 brands from 20 countries. A seminar, the ‘ASEAN Electronics Manufacturing Forum’ will offer knowledge and prepare audience for AEC. On another hand, the IPC – Association Connecting Electronics Industries is organizing for the first time in Thailand -- the “IPC Hand Soldering Championship” to search for the best in electronics soldering capability. This is a competition that is organized worldwide to promote manufacturer’s capability.TCEB and Reed Tradex Co., Ltd. advised Thai manufacturers to prepare to receive SMEs from Japan who are moving their manufacturing base to Thailand and AEC. Manufacturers are invited to see and experience that latest innovation and search for appropriate technology to improve their efficiency and manufacturing capability.Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau or TCEB said that Manufacturing Expo is the leading platform to bring manufacturers from several industries to form a business network. This year’s Manufacturing Expo is even larger as it includes Nepcon Thailand 2013 the technology exhibition for electronics parts manufacturing and FurniTech 2013 the exhibition of furniture making machinery. This shows strong capacity for unlimited growth, and because it involves several industrial sectors, TCEB offers full support in the context consistent with growth of MICE industry.For more information about next edition, please visit www.manufacturing-expo.com

Congratulation to the new appointed TCEB’s Exhibitions & Events Director

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) announced the new appointments of Mrs. Jaruwan Suwannasat who has been entrusted with a wider portfolio in the new roles as Director of Exhibitions & Events Department and would like to take this opportunity to extend my wholeheartedly thankful to everyone for friendship and supportive during my term as TCEB’s Exhibition Director.“With expanded role and responsibility, I am wholeheartedly committed to continue working closely with the industry friends and partners to en route for Thailand’s Exhibition Industry and bring the continuity and excellence in propelling the growth of Thailand as international exhibition platform into global arena.”, Mrs. Jaruwan revealed.Her appointment will certainly reinforce the close relationship Thailand already enjoys with the global exhibition community. For Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, who has now functioned in the new career path, as Vice President Strategic and Business Development of TCEB. She will spearhead TCEB with strategic plan and direction for the business development of Thailand MICE Industry.With these two new appointments, they both are looking forward to more bridges of communication and collaboration with MICE colleagues locally and overseas. So that together can connect and create the new business opportunities through Thailand….the quality destinations for MICE.For more information, please contact TCEB’s Exhibition Department at siriwan_k@tceb.or.th

THAILAND-PHILIPPINES PARTNERSHIP EMPOWERS ASEAN MICE INDUSTRY - GEARING UP FOR AEC FORMATION IN 2015

Manila/24 July 2013 - Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) in collaboration with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands (CCPI) join forces to forge new MICE frontiers, entering a new era of ASEAN MICE leadership. The Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony saw agreements between Thailand’s public sector and Philippines private sector organizations, collaborating to further improve and expand trade promotion and MICE industries between the two countries.Speaking at the MOU Signing Ceremony on behalf of an official Thai counterpart, Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, TCEB’s President said, “As a government agency under the Prime Minister’s Office, The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, or TCEB, is mandated to promote Thailand’s meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions - or MICE - industry. Thailand's MICE sector has been growing strongly in recent years. In 2012 we welcomed 895,224 MICE visitors, exceeding our annual target by 19 per cent, with 7,382 MICE events and earnings of US$2.66 billion. MICE travelers from Asia have been largely responsible for this strong growth, representing 65 per cent of all MICE travelers last year. The Philippines is one of Thailand’s priority countries.”The bilateral relationship between Thailand and The Philippines has long been established since 1949 – and trades and investment is vibrant. A 2012 report from the Thai Ministry of Commerce (MOC) ranked the Philippines as the 12th export destination for Thai products with total value amounting to US$ 4,861.17 million. The same report showed that the Philippines was Thailand’s 20th largest supplier of goods in 2012, with trade valued at US$2,724.21 million.As an Asian economy on the rise, The Philippines will play an important role in contributing to the success of Thailand’s MICE industry. Last year, The Philippines was ranked ninth in terms of numbers of MICE visitors to many business events in Thailand, accounting for 16,745 MICE visitors in total. In addition, TCEB expects the figure to grow by a further 10 per cent in 2013, in line with the dynamism and rapid growth of the broader economy. The formation of the AEC in 2015 will take this positioning to a whole new dimension, when the 10 member states of ASEAN will become a single market with free flow of goods, services, skilled labour and investment. The MOU agreements will amplify TCEB’s ongoing efforts to further improve and expand trade promotion and MICE industry between Thailand and The Philippines.The Memorandums also highlight the importance of a long-term strategic partnership in the MICE industry in order to create long-term competitiveness and sustainability for the service sectors of the Philippines and Thailand in the international arena. There will also be exchange of support and business trade missions to launch, transplant, and participate in successful trade shows, and meeting industry initiatives.Underlining the importance of building strategic partnerships, Mr Nopparat added, “The two agreements that we are launching today will play a central role in driving this growth. This is the start of a long-term strategic partnership among our organisations that will be of immense benefit to our respective MICE industries and to the broader economic partnership between The Philippines and Thailand.”Following the agreements, which prioritize the cooperation between the two countries especially in the areas of trade missions, business promotions and information exchange, TCEB will continue to work closely with all strategic counterparts to further propel Thailand’s MICE industry. The meetings and incentives focused activities also include the Bangkok Carousel: TCEB-TG Philippines Familiarization Trip 2013, and the Philippines Roadshow with the Association of Thai Tourism Marketing (ATTM). Apart from cooperation within the meetings and incentives frameworks, Thailand also has opportunities to showcase the advance in major industries in Thailand and the ASEAN region in several flagship business events including Horti Asia for the agriculture industry, Propak Asia for the manufacturing industry, Food & Hotel Thailand for the food and hospitality services industry, and Thailand Lab for the medical industry. All of these offer an ideal platform for market players from The Philippines.TCEB also aims to tap into new markets within the Philippines including Clark and Cebu, by organizing a trade mission with ASEAN collaboration. TCEB has also prepared a special incentive programme, ‘100 A-HEAD’, for Philippine-based trade promoters to visit trade exhibitions in Thailand.This year Thailand has welcomed a number of MICE visitors from the Philippines in several exhibitions such as VIV Asia, ISRMAX Asia, THAIFEX – World of Food Asia, Food Ingredient Asia and TFBO & TRAFS, and in meetings and incentives groups including Yokohama Tires Philippines. In addition, Thailand is home to a wide range of international MICE events, including the 65th World Newspaper Congress, 20th World Editor Forum, 23rd World Advertising Forum, 11th International Congress on Aids in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP) 2013, Herbalife Asia Pacific Extravaganza 2013 and ITU TELECOM WORLD 2013.“In line with the 10 per cent growth target for the Philippines market, TCEB also expects Thailand’s overall MICE industry to continue to grow by 10 per cent by revenue, with a year-end target for 2013 of 940,000 visitors and earnings of US$3.14 billion. With the strong collaboration between TCEB, PCCI and CCPI, we are confident that we will be able to achieve our goal in the near future.” Mr Nopparat concluded.# # #For more information, please contactThailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization)Ms. Arisara ThanuplangSenior Manager - Corporate CommunicationsTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr. Pishnu PlaikaewManager - Corporate CommunicationsTel: +66 2 694 6000 ext. 3014Email: pishnu_p@tceb.or.th

TCEB Welcomes Khon Kaen as Thailand’s Northeastern MICE City Opening opportunities as Indochina and Southern China’s Convention and Exhibition Hub

Khon Kaen/ 29 July 2013 – Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Khon Kaen to promote the province as Thailand’s fifth MICE City. Attracting participation from more than 350 government offices and local entrepreneurs to join the mission, the campaign aims to enhance Khon Kaen as the hub of international conventions and exhibitions, serving the expansion of broader ASEAN economies in the region.Mr Somsak Suwansujarit, Governor of Khon Kaen, shared during the opening ceremony of the ‘D-MICE: Meetings in Thailand │ Khon Kaen MICE City’ and the MOU Signing Ceremony for the promotion of the MICE industry in collaboration with TCEB that, “By joining TCEB to promote Khon Kaen as a MICE City is in harmony with the 4-year Provincial Development Plan (2014-2017). Strategically, the endeavour will be implemented under the vision of ‘Khon Kaen: The livable city, moving forward to be an ASEAN metropolis’. The plan consists of three core missions: first, strong community, happy citizens; second, improvement of a livable city and the model city for integrated development and administration of the province; and third, development of a hub for the GMS (Greater Mekong Subregion) involving economy, transportation and human capital to step forward as an ASEAN metropolis.“Khon Kaen has stipulated its strategic standpoints with a key emphasis on developing the city as an ASEAN hub for a broader range of economic services cover six facets including: Commercial, Investment and Services; Transportation and Logistics; Medical and Public Health; Educational; Conventions and Tourism; and Green Industry. The MICE industry can also serve as an effective mechanism in propelling the improvement of our provincial economy.”With vast potential to contribute to the prosperity of the MICE industry, Khon Kaen is considered a large commercial city which is home to commerce, investment and transportation in the northeastern region. Further, the province is at the centre of industrial development in the region under the Government’s ‘East-West Economic Corridor’ (EWEC) development policy, which is designed to connect five countries, including China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. As a result of this, Khon Kaen will become the door to Indochina and Southern China – the future hub of commerce, investment and transportation in the region.Khon Kaen is also stepping up as the hub of green industry, following the Government’s approval for the establishment of a green industrial estate in Khon Kaen to attract more investors into the province.In addition, Khon Kaen is the northeastern regional centre of Government offices, with more than 200 state agencies, educational institutes, as well as medical and public health centres. Chosen by the Government along with Phuket and Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen is soon to be developed as a metropolis of information and communication technology (ICT).Home to the northeastern region’s largest convention centre at Khon Kaen University that can cater for up to 3,000 visitors, Khon Kaen also has numerous five-star hotels across the province, as well as an airport that can accommodate up to 32 daily flights. Currently, the public and private sectors are joining forces to promote Khon Kaen Airport as a complete international airport in order to serve future economic expansion.“Obviously, Khon Kaen has the potential and readiness to grow as a MICE City. The MOU signing with TCEB is a golden opportunity to create awareness of more than 350 Government agencies and local entrepreneurs. The initiation of this MOU calls for participation of relevant parties to express their commitment to promoting Khon Kaen as a MICE City and a convention and exhibition hub of the northeastern region, to serve domestic clients as well as and those from Indochina and Southern China,” concluded Mr Somsak.Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, president of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, revealed that, “Cooperation with Khon Kaen for the promotion of the MICE City is part of our holistic strategy to enhance the Domestic MICE industry. The initiative involves three obligations in the development of MICE City including: Policy and Strategy; Marketing Promotion; and Provision of Knowledge and Consultancy. Today, Khon Kaen has showcased its potential and readiness, as well as demonstrating cooperation from the public and private sectors, who are important driving forces to propel Khon Kaen towards the position of ‘5th MICE City’ or the ‘Gateway to I-san MICE City’, which supports MICE activities of on a domestic and international scale.”The MOU for the promotion of the MICE industry between Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB and Khon Kaen province will be implemented under mutual collaboration in four areas, including: First, stipulation of strategy to promote and publicise the holding of MICE activities in Khon Kaen on both a domestic and international scale; second, dissemination and exchange of knowledge on the MICE industry to related public and private sector organisations in the province; third, exchange of information that enables urban planning, construction of infrastructure systems and transportation routes of Khon Kaen; and fourth, development of human resources relevant to the MICE industry to boost its potential and competitiveness.TCEB has collaborated with Khon Kaen province in creating the roadmap for MICE development in Khon Kaen during 2013-2016 by emphasising three strategic directions including: Winning Events Strategy to maintain existing markets and expansion to target markets; Promotion Strategy to empower Khon Kaen as the region’s first option for MICE; and Development Strategy to make Khon Kaen a new MICE City with distinct uniqueness that is able to add value to the MICE industry through the creative economy.Phase 1 (2013): Emphasis on the expansion of Domestic MICE Industry Successful domestic exhibitions will be brought to other regions with an aspiration to disseminate economic growth to several regions. Awareness of Khon Kaen MICE City and advantages of MICE City will also be created among target groups across the public and private sectors, as well as educational institutes. Additionally, events the province is already capable of handling will also be held, such as Thai Silk Fair, OTOP Fair and Mekong Forum 2013 by Mekong Institute, and many more.Phase 2 (2014-2015): Emphasis on the improvement of Khon Kaen MICE standards to prepare for AEC In order to succeed as the hub of MICE in Indochina and Southern China, standards will be set in every relevant segment of the Khon Kaen MICE industry. Betterment of infrastructure will be implemented to serve regional MICE activities, while local entrepreneurs will be educated to strengthen Khon Kaen MICE City. In addition, roadshows will introduce Khon Kaen MICE City in target countries in Indochina and the GMS. Concurrently, a MICE hotel standard improvement campaign will be initiated to enhance the readiness of MICE service providers and boost the potential of MICE human resources. Initiatives under Phase 2 are to be implemented with the goal to make Khon Kaen at the top of the regional MICE market.Phase 3 (2016): Emphasis on exploring AEC market This phase aspires to expand the MICE base and accelerate the potential of the province to support the EWEC (East-West Economic Corridor) through the Government policy by establishing it as the hub of regional industrial development.Khon Kaen is a high potential province suited for advancement as a MICE City. A survey of statistics in meetings, incentives and international exhibitions in Thailand in 2012 by Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, valued the Khon Kaen MICE industry at 343 million baht.In recognition of the importance of preparing human resources and infrastructure to serve the MICE industry, TCEB has initiated the ‘D-MICE: Meetings in Thailand │ Khon Kaen MICE City’ campaign to prepare local target groups, public and private sector organisations, entrepreneurs, members of the press and general public with necessary knowledge, and to enhance their understanding of the MICE industry.“In promoting Khon Kaen as a complete MICE City, every party relevant to the MICE industry must possess knowledge and understanding, and join to achieve the mission in comprehensive, unified way. The ‘D-MICE: Meetings in Thailand │ Khon Kaen MICE City’ campaign is a remarkable step on which representatives from all parties will build to acknowledge the policy, as well as express their obligations and readiness to turn policies into actual practice.“In 2013, TCEB anticipates the growth of the domestic MICE business at 15 per cent, or 4.3 million MICE travellers, which could generate up to 13,706 million baht in revenue,” concluded Mr Nopparat.The ‘D-MICE: Meetings in Thailand │ Khon Kaen MICE City’ campaign will be held until 31 July 2013 at the Convention Hall, Centara Hotel and Convention Centre, Khon Kaen. The event highlights an exhibition showcasing the Thai MICE industry, MICE Cities, as well as categories of domestic meetings and trade fairs featuring local products.# # #For more information please contact:Thailand Convention & Exhibition BureauMs Arisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr. Pishnu PlaikaewTel: +66 2 694 6000 ext. 3014Email: pishnu_p@tceb.or.th

TCEB Synergizes with Royal Initiative Development Foundation and Leading Airlines to Launch “DOMESTIC MICE: A Royal Trail Inspiration” Campaign

Bangkok/August 29, 2013 -- In another effort to promote domestic MICE industry, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB today launched a new promotional campaign in conjunction with Royal Initiative Discovery (Pid Thong Lung Phra) Foundation (R.I.D.) and leading airlines, namely Thai Airways International and THAI Smile, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air. Titled “DOMESTIC MICE: A Royal Trail Inspiration”, the campaign offers public and private organizations endless opportunities to discover several novel ways of team building in the many Royally-initiated projects as a pre-or post-meeting activities. Being introduced were 14 Royal Initiative Projects which form model MICE destinations in 5 provinces – Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Sakon Nakhon and Krabi. The campaign runs from September 2013 to March 2014, and interested organizations may partake of the exclusive privileges and attractive discount being offered by participating airlines.At the launch and press conference taking place today at Devaraj Sabharomya Throne Hall on the compound of the Phya Thai Palace, R.I.D. Secretary General Mom Rajawongse Disnadda Diskul graced the ceremony with his impressive opening speech, followed by a discussion on “DOMESTIC MICE: A Royal Trail Inspiration” by TCEB D’s President Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, and high level airline executives namely Mrs Petchpring Sarasin, Vice President-Corporate Public Relations, Thai Airways International; Mr Varong Israsena, Deputy Sales Director, Bangkok Airways; M.L. Bovornovadep Devakula, Director of Business Development, AirAsia; Mr Pinyot Pibulsonggram, Vice President-Marketing & Sales, Nok Air; and Mr Voranate Laprabang, Managing Director of THAI Smile.In his opening speech, M.R. Disnadda Diskul disclosed that, “There are altogether over 4,000 Royal Initiative Projects nationwide where people from around the world come to visit and benefit from the body of knowledge – sustainable development, in particular. This is the knowledge for the 21st Century which we can learn from members of those communities – the real practitioners. I am very much delighted to see the synergy of TCEB and the partner airlines in launching this campaign to encourage greater number of domestic MICE events and greater interest among the Thai to visit and learn from the Royal Initiative Projects. Definitely, they could make use of this experience in nurturing organizational as well as personal growth.”Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, President of TCEB added that, “The Royal Initiative Projects are today among the most attractive destinations for both Thai and foreign tourists since they could learn and appreciate the great effort dedicated by Their Majesties the King and Queen as well as other members of the Royal Family. For MICE market, these knowledge-based projects serve well as great learning grounds for pre and post meeting activities. And this new campaign reaffirms TCEB’s commitment towards promoting domestic MICE to generate more income to further strengthen our economy.”Mr Nopparat further revealed that there would be 6 thematic presentations for this new campaign and any organizations may choose to conduct team building in the following themes: Adventure, CSR, Experiential, Green, History & Culture, and Luxury, the last of which meaning the exclusive opportunity for certain experience.“This is the final campaign for fiscal year 2013, and we expect to generate 100 million baht from the 5,000 participants in these domestic MICE events. This figure will contribute to our annual growth of 15 per cent, registering 4.3 million MICE visitors, and accounting for 13,706 million baht in total revenues,” Mr Nopparat disclosed.In this initial stage, “DOMESTIC MICE: A Royal Trail Inspiration” proudly presents 14 ideal destinations on the trail of royal projects in five provinces – Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Sakon Nakhon, and Krabi – as convention venue coupled with learning centre. This project features various interesting side activities, for example, bird-watching of more than a thousand rare species at Angkhang Royal Agricultural Station, high altitude fisheries at Inthanon Royal Agricultural Station, ecological and beach cleaning activities at Royal Conservation and Restoration of Thung Thale Forest Project at Koh Lanta, visit to mulberry farm and savour the aroma of mulberry tea at Phufa Development Centre Project, get hands-on experience on rice terrace culture at Royal Initiative Discovery Foundation Pilot Project at Ban Nam Pak, strolling amidst the capturing sea of flowers and picking macadamia nuts at Doi Tung Development Project, or visit the tea oil extraction plant at Tea Oil and Plant Oils Development Centre.Interested public and private organizations are welcome to inquire more information or make reservations by contacting all participating airlines or call TCEB Call Centre number 1105, or check its web site: www.ประชุมเมืองไทย.com or facebook page www.facebook.com/meetinthailand .# # #For more information please contact:Thailand Convention & Exhibition BureauMs Arisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr. Pishnu PlaikaewTel: +66 2 694 6000Email: pishnu_p@tceb.or.th

TCEB Holds the “Meetings Industry Day 2013”, Pooling MICE Entrepreneurs to Join the Industry Seminar in Pattaya, Chonburi

ทีเส็บจัดงาน “Meetings Industry Day 2013” ดึงผู้ประกอบการไมซ์ร่วมสัมมนาทิศทางอุตสาหกรรมการประชุม ณ เมืองพัทยา จังหวัดชลบุรี

The holding of Meetings Industry Day 2013 responds to the Government policy in initiating meetings in MICE City. Aspiring to motivate economy and improve local manpower, the event will generate revenue and disseminate knowledge for sustainable development of regional MICE.Pattaya / 23 August 2013 – Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organisation) or TCEB held the annual entrepreneurs' meeting or "Meetings Industry Day 2013". Having landed invitations to association managements, representatives from public and private sectors, as well as entrepreneurs relevant to meetings industry from central region and Pattaya City, a total of 200 attendees will be joining in this prestigious symposium in Pattaya, Chonburi, during 22-23 August 2013, at PEACH Conference Center. TCEB will reveal strategic plan on the complete advancement of meetings industry and map out the direction of Thai meetings industry. As well, leading figures from meetings industry will be present at the event to share their insights and knowledge under the concept "Remix the MIC The Winning Formula".Mr. Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, president of Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, disclosed that, “Objectives of the Meetings Industry Day 2013 embrace the motivation of network creation and connect business relationship. The seminar was designed to educate attendees about meetings business and benefits that every sector will be earning from MICE industry, which, in other words, is an essential mechanism in empowering the nation’s economy and society. Particularly the international convention, corporate meeting and incentive tourism, or the so-called MIC – Meeting Incentive and Convention, all of which is the business that contributes massive proportion of revenue into Thai economy in a successive manner,”Overall picture of MICE industry in 2012 had seen 895,224 MICE travellers entering into Thailand for which could bring around 79,770 million baht of revenue into the country. In the meetings segment, which consists of corporate meeting, international convention and incentive tourism, 730,888 attendees travellered into Thailand and generated the revenue of 67,059 million baht. Quarter 1-3 of 2013 have brought 594,242 attendees into Thailand with a total revenue of 52,802 million baht. Target of Thai MICE in 2013 foresees 949,000 MICE travellers enterting into Thailand with an estimated revenue of 88,000 million baht. It is expected that meetings industry alone could draw around 767,400 MICE travellers that could generate 73,900 million baht in revenue.“Under the WIN PROMOTE DEVELOP strategy, TCEB will support and strengthen MICE business side by side with the development of MICE City in order to serve the country’s leadership in holding regional and national MICE events. Ranging from escalating entrepreneurs’ potential, improvement of competency to increaing value-added activities within target provinces, all efforts is heading towards raising the amount of MICE travellers and volume of revenue. The holding of Meetings Industry Day 2013 implements the bureau’s strategy and responds to the Government policy which requires actual holding of meeting in MICE City to help motivate the economy and improve local human resources. The meeting is also considered an activity that persuades holistic improvement of meetings industry and entrepreneurs’ potential to fulfill the achievement of meetings industry in 2013.” added Mr. Nopparat.Distinguished guest speakers at the Meetings Industry Day 2013 include policy makers and MICE business operators who will lead the symposium under the topic “Trend and Direction of Meetings Industry in the Future”. Key figures consist of Mr. Prachum Tantiprasertsuk, chairman of marketing promotion department of Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (Thailand); Mr. Chatchawal Suppachayanon, President of Thai Hotel Association, Eastern Chapter; Dr. Pairoj Kluakanchana, MD, head of emergency unit of Narenthorn EMS Center; Mrs. Salinee Satirapakkakul, General Manager, USANA Health Science (Thailand) Limited and Khun Pornthip Hirunkate, managing director of Destination Asia (Thailand) Limited. Many sessions of seminar on interesting topics will also be held at the event. For example, Formula towards Success in International Convention Bidding, Formula and Essential Elements of Organising Meetings and Formula of Strategic Marketing Plan for Corporate Meetings & Incentives.Mr. Nopparat further added that, “To hold this event in Pattaya is a golden opportunity for MICE entrepreneurs to witness the growth of Pattaya as a MICE City that’s been offered chances to welcome MICE travellers visiting Thailand in the remaining months of 2013. At this point, Pattaya is getting ready for the holding of remarkable events, such as 21st International Union on Health Promotion and Education World Conference on Health Promotion and Education - IUHPE 2013, 10th World International Farm Youth Exchange Conference 2013 (10th World IFYE Conference 2013) and Prudential Singapore Fast Track 2013.Pattaya plays the role of Thailand’s 2nd MICE City. Currently, Pattaya is home to 396 hotels, which include hotels operated by Thais and international hotel chains, with the total of 28,459 rooms. Meetings rooms residing across hotels accounted for 102 rooms, allowing total flexibility to organise international MICE events of all scales regardless of small or large size. Further, there are 3 large convention and exhibition centres in Pattaya for which could offer the space of 13,212 square metres in total. These state-of-the-art facilities include the convention centre at Ambassador City Jomtien Hotel, Eastern National Sports Training Center and PEACH Conference Center. Moreover, Pattaya is willing to support the development as MICE City with the invention of packages for the convenience of MICE travellers as follows: 1. More than 100 attendees travelling together will be led from the airport to Pattaya by exclusive guiding vehicles and are being invited to join specially arranged environmental conservation activities; 2. More than 300 attendees travelling together will be warmly welcomed by the Mayor of Pattaya accompanying with a party and welcome drinks and 3. More than 500 attendees travelling together will be entertained with special shows from Pattaya City. Those wishing to extend their stay will be offered rooms with discounted rates.At any rate, Pattaya is considered one of Thailand’s distinct MICE Cities to have been offered opportunities to welcome foreign MICE travellers joining meetings events from time to time. In 2013 (January-August 2013), Pattaya has held a total of 54 events which pooled as much as 23,494 attendees into the city. Notable events included Metlife Korea, Infinitus 2013 Group China, Abbott National Conference Group, Merck Chemical Division, etc.# # #For more information please contact:Thailand Convention & Exhibition BureauMs Arisara ThanuplangTel: +66 2 694 6095Email: arisara_t@tceb.or.thMr. Pishnu PlaikaewTel: +66 2 694 6000Email: pishnu_p@tceb.or.th# # #Download DocumentPlenary Global Business Strategic Direction of TCEB