Singapore. Japanese MICE exhibitors are returning to IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific with the largest delegation from the country since 2010. Comprising of Convention Visitors Bureaus (CVBs), Destination Management Companies (DMCs), corporate companies and hospitality chains, the Japan cluster includes Fukuoka Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sapporo Convention Bureau, DMC Sapporo Co. Ltd, Pripress Center and Fujita Kanko Hotels and Resorts.
All are new to the event with the exception of Sapporo Convention Bureau that last exhibited 3 years ago. Factors such as motivation to further promote its MICE sector thanks to a falling yen currency and recovery from the aftermath from past catastrophies, have spurred optimism in the Japanese market with MICE players eager to reach out to both regional and international buyers.
Many are also taking advantage of the specified “Thai Year” initiative to promote various projects and events taking place between Japan and Thailand. One such thrust is the recent visa waiver regulation that allows Thai visitors to visit Japan without a visa, thereby boosting tourism opportunities between both countries. Capitalising on the visa waiver regulation, Thai Airways International is increasing accessibility from Japan, with recently launched special fares and new flights to Sapporo. The carrier is also looking at the possibility of serving Hiroshima and Sendai.
Said returning exhibitor Marico Ogi, Deputy Director of Sapporo Convention Bureau – who will be attending IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific 2013 for the 9th time, “With Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) as our new MICE partner, we are pleased to launch joint promotion efforts and announce exciting business opportunities for buyers all over the world. IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific presents a vital opportunity for us to experience and engage potential buyers through the event’s official and social programs.”
Yukitsugu Ishikawa, Chief Representative, Singapore Representative Office of Fujita Kanko Hotels & Resorts also expressed confident sentiments in the show. “Participating in IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific is our chance to be competitive alongside other MICE hospitality chains in the World. It is also an ideal platform to learn about the needs of the MICE market, not just within Asia but also in America and Europe. This is the best opportunity to network with people involved in the MICE industry, especially PCOs, event planners, and tourism boards.”
