The 30th IT&CM Asia and 25th CTW Asia-Pacific 2022 delivered an unforgettable edition, marking the events’ first-ever hybrid edition with a buzzing show floor of activities and entertainment by major pavilions, increased demand for targeted networking sessions, and added knowledge sessions.
Welcoming over 1,200 validated and qualified unique in-person and remote delegates over 3-days, the 2022 show saw 363 exhibitors from 27 new and returning Territories / Countries like Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Monaco, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and many more. Including the 414 MICE, Association and Corporate Buyers and over 60 Media, who took advantage of the bountiful procurement and networking opportunities.
Meeting and exchanging contacts for potential business in the Asia-Pacific regions and garnering fresh perspectives was the highlight for Team Umbrella Events’ Mi Anna Karin Johnsson, who attended for the first time.
IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2022 Previews An Immersive Line-Up of Activities
Navigating the post-pandemic landscape is one of the key focuses of the event this year. The Opening Keynote presented by Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) shared insights on critical ways the MICE industry have and should progress, emphasising on the continued value of “phygital” – a blend of physical and digital events; embedded wellness; and inclusive events that are universally accessible for a diverse audience.
The distinguished keynote panel included Max Boontawee Jantasuwan, President of SITE Thailand Chapter; Waikin Wong, Regional Director Asia Pacific of ICCA; and moderated Karen Yue, Group Editor of TTG Travel Trade Publishing, explored the various changes the business events and travel industry had to face during the pandemic, and discussed the strategies moving forward into the future.
The first evening culminates with the ever-popular Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception, co-hosted with our strategic destination partner and host country, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). The two-hour extravaganza features a delectable variety of foods accompanied with a dazzling performance by The SwingKings.
Throughout the 3-day event, delegates can also look forward to other education components like the IT&CM Asia MICE knowledge sessions, CTW Asia-Pacific conference sessions and partner event Future Leaders Forum, emphasised a forward-looking theme, helmed by leading industry partners and experts, to deliver their expertise.
2-Day Exhibition and Appointments Open at IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2022
Opportunities were boundless for delegates to meet new people and reconnect with familiar faces after a 2-year long of meeting virtually. Arunroj Phitthayapruek, Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) shared with event organisers, “You can expect an appetising array of business and networking activities at this event. It’s a valuable source for corporate, agency and association buyers that need the Asian connection. This event also put us in touch with everything from buyers and suppliers to services, conferences, seminars, pre-show city tours and post-show incentive trips.”
Delegates also had the chance to obtain first-hand information from NTOs such as Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), MEET Taiwan, Tourism Promotions Board, Philippines (TPB), Promotion Bureau of the Principality of Monaco – Asia, Korea Tourism Organisation, Incheon Tourism Organisation and Gyeonggi Tourism Organization on their latest highlights and development during the Brand Engagement sessions over the 2 days. Over 30 shortlisted buyers had the opportunity to hear about the Thailand’s latest MICE updates during the 20-minute Exhibition Walkabout by TCEB. Prizes were also given away at the end of the session.
Destinations and organisations also displayed experiential elements at their booths with activities, giveaways and entertainment. The highlights included taking selfie with the Magic Thailand AR Graffiti and receiving “Thai Dessert Soap” at the Thailand booth, DIY handicrafts at the Taiwan booth along with a virtual reality experience showcasing Taiwan in 360°.
The networking and educations opportunities did not end there as the event continued on the virtual platform, EventsAir till October 5th that was extended from September 28th due to overwhelming requests. Exhibitors and buyers were still able to conduct business appointments at the 3D Virtual Exhibition and Walk-in meets and watch the on-demand content including knowledge sessions, brand engagements, buyer procurement showcases.
To see more of the happenings at the IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2022 show, do check out our event highlights video on the TTG Events YouTube channel.
If you would like to procure, network and learn at IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023, join us from 26 – 28 September 2023 at Bangkok, Thailand. The leading MICE event is co-located with CTW Asia-Pacific – The Leading Corporate Travel Management Conference for the Asia-Pacific.
For more information, log on to www.itcma.com | www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac