“Creative Thailand 2016” ready to be launched

Bangkok, 13 October, 2016 – The Royal Thai Government is introducing the “Creative Thailand 2016” as a showcase of the creative economy concept, the nationwide campaign covering creative people, creative places, and creative products. It will be under the theme “Think Big”, scheduled to take place at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) from 19 to 23 October, 2016. In parallel with the Creative Thailand 2016, there will also be the 41st Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair (BIG + BIH), which represents the creative products aspect of the event.

The Creative Economy is a catchall term to describe how Thailand’s economy will develop over the next few years as it is driven forward by creative innovation to become a more value-based economy. The “Creative Thailand 2016: Think Big” expo is aimed at starting this drive to promote cultural and creative industries with high value to the nation and to build links between the public and private sector. This is in line with the 20-year reform programme, called Thailand 4.0, being charted by the government of Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha under the vision slogan, "Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability”.

Mr. Suvit Maesincee, Deputy Minister of Commerce said, “Thailand is now adopting the concept of the “Creative Economy” as we recognise the benefits that come from activities that trade with creativity, knowledge and information. Driven by changes in world markets and technology, the Creative Economy can generate jobs, wealth and cultural engagement. We look forward to seeing it create income and opportunities for the Thai people as these ideas take hold in the kingdom and creative people “Think Big” and work with us to grow Thailand’s economy.”

To launch the “Creative Thailand 2016” the Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce is joining forces with the Thailand Creative and Design Centre (TCDC), which is under the supervision of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), Silpakorn University and the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (Public Organisation) (SACICT) to coordinate strategies and create opportunities to work with the private sector and develop governmental policy and create new, high quality business.

At the “Creative Thailand 2016” there will be several zones to allow visitors to get a full picture of what the Creative Economy is. Zone 1: “Baht and Brain” will give a general overview of what makes up the Creative Economy while Zone 2: “Creative World” has attractions to inspire creativity. For Zone 3, this will showcase the “Creative District” with a range of interesting exhibitions and fun activities. A 30-square-metre circular cinema will be brought in for a screening of motion-graphic documentaries on eight top destinations in Thailand that have creatively turned local values into tourism earnings without compromising the cultural integrity of the local people. Visitors to the zone will be able to receive a “Startups” infographic booklet that showcases best practices in starting-up creative ventures. There is also a chance to win return air tickets for two from Thai AirAsia for the four most creative pictures shared on social media with #CREATIVETHAILAND. The Zone 4: “Think Big” will display some amazing creative economy products and provide a business and financial consulting service for people starting up new ventures. Zone 5, “Talk Symposium” is where visitors can hear talks given by local and international experts who can create understanding of the Creative Economy and inspire new start-ups and entrepreneurs.

After visiting the “Creative Thailand 2016” exhibition, all general public are invited to visit the BIG + BIH to witness the creative products and services of Thailand.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said, “The Creative Thailand embraces a vital role in shaping the tourism industry as we are integrating it into the Tourism 4.0 which incorporates two key concepts including “Strength from Within’ and ‘Connect to the World’ by fortifying the tourism industry with the use of innovation to attract both domestic and international tourists.”

Contact Information

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Tourism Authority of Thailand 

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