PATA Travel Mart 2024 Celebrates 25 Years in Bangkok with Over 900 Delegates

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) marked a significant milestone as the PATA Travel Mart 2024 celebrated its 25th anniversary in Bangkok, drawing more than 900 delegates from 45 destinations worldwide. Held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand, the event showcased the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism and innovation, bringing together a diverse mix of exhibitors, buyers, and industry leaders.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted the importance of the event: “PATA Travel Mart 2024 exemplifies our commitment to the future of Asia Pacific tourism by being a platform for high-quality buyers and sellers from Asia Pacific and beyond. It reflects the Association’s mission to promote sustainable growth, drive innovation, and foster collaboration within the Asia Pacific region. Hosting this year’s event in Bangkok underscores PATA’s enduring partnership with Thai tourism organisations and reinforces our shared commitment to upholding Thailand’s reputation as one of the leading MICE destinations in Asia Pacific.”

The event brought together 266 exhibitors from 168 organizations across 24 destinations and 191 buyers from 173 organizations representing 31 source markets. This diversity underscored the global reach and influence of PATA in connecting key stakeholders and promoting sustainable tourism growth.

Key Highlights from PATA Travel Mart 2024

The three-day event was packed with insightful forums, networking opportunities, and cultural showcases:

1. PATA Knowledge Forum 2024:

The PATA Knowledge Forum 2024 opened the event with sessions focused on “Reimagining Responsible Tourism for a Regenerative Future.” Experts and industry leaders discussed pressing issues such as sustainability integration, cybersecurity challenges, and the evolving role of travel agents. The forum provided valuable insights and tools for navigating the complexities of the Asia Pacific tourism industry in today’s rapidly changing environment.

During the forum, PATA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Tourism Seasonality Summit, signaling a commitment to tackle the challenges of peak season tourism and work collaboratively towards mitigating the impacts of over-tourism.

2. PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair:

In parallel, the inaugural PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair took place at Srinakarin Hall, Dusit Thani College, attracting over 200 student delegates and industry professionals. This event served as a bridge between aspiring young professionals and established industry leaders, offering valuable networking opportunities and insights into tourism career advancement.

3. Cultural Experiences and Networking Opportunities:

The day concluded with a vibrant Welcome Reception hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and themed “Thai Temple Fair.” Attendees were treated to cultural performances, including the iconic Phi Ta Khon and traditional Thai Puppet shows, immersing them in Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

4. Official Opening and Awards Ceremony:

On August 28, the official opening ceremony was presided over by several distinguished officials, including Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand; Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director, Macao Government Tourism Office; Puripan Bunnag, Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau; and other key figures. A contemporary Muay Thai performance set the tone for the day, celebrating Thailand’s cultural vibrancy and hospitality.

The PATA Gold Awards Lunch and Awards Presentation, hosted by the Macao Government Tourism Office, recognized 20 winners across two categories: Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility, highlighting exemplary contributions to the tourism sector.

PATA Media Briefing

The PATA Media Briefing held at the Foreign Correspondent Club of Thailand (FCCT) unveiled several upcoming international initiatives. A key highlight was the signing of an MOU between PATA and the Sanya Tourism Board, which announced the 2024 Tropical Coastal City Tourism Event to be hosted in Sanya, China. This collaboration aims to boost tourism development and showcase the region’s unique coastal offerings.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid expressed gratitude to the sponsors and participants: “On behalf of the Association, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every PATA Travel Mart 2024 sponsor, partner, and participant, whose steadfast support is pivotal to the continued advancement of our industry.”

From August 28 to 29, PATA Travel Mart 2024 continued with business and open hall sessions that facilitated extensive networking and collaboration between buyers and sellers. Trade visitors were also given the chance to engage in various activities on the final day, strengthening connections and exploring new opportunities for growth.

The event was supported by key sponsors, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Platinum Sponsor), Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Korea Tourism Organization (Gold Sponsors), and other prominent partners and media outlets. These partnerships underscore PATA’s ongoing efforts to foster a collaborative and innovative tourism environment in the Asia Pacific region.