IT&CMA 2002

Early next week, between 23 - 25 October,  the first ever IT&CMA, in its successful 10 year history, shall open its doors in Bangkok, Thailand.

Following the appalling massacre of October 12 in Bali, there is no better time for the travel industry from within Asia and around the world to meet, share ideas and discuss what is the best way forward, not only in light of recent terrorist attacks, but also the uncertain future of a war in Iraq, and other potential events which could damage the industry as a whole.

The IT&CMA first started in Hong Kong in 1993, and has since become viewed by many as the most rewarding MICE exhibition and conference in Asia Pacific. This years theme is ‘Celebrating Asia’s Fascinating World of MICE’.

The organising committee have organised an exciting itinerary for the 2002 IT&CMA even going as far as having a Thai boxing ring in the exhibition hall with daily entertainment (although we are assured that this cannot be used by sellers or buyers to beat up / down contracted rates !!). Apart from the pre-scheduled business sessions, exciting familiarisation tours around Thailand,  fruitful networking opportunities, and lively educational seminars, you can expect the IT&CMA to offer you  an important open door into the fascinating world of MICE in Asia.

This years event has 5,000 square metres of exhibition area with 262 exhibiting companies and organisations from 26 countries, with Spain exhibiting for the first time. Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand will all have a larger presence at the show than before.

The IT&CMA 2002 will have 300 pre-registered hosted and non-hosted trade buyers from 37 countries, of which the largest numbers are from Germany, Australia, UK, France, and US - which make up almost  56 per cent of the total. There is also a significant number of buyers from smaller markets e.g. Belgium, Italy and Poland, with Asia, also making up a sizeable representation especially from India, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia.

We put some questions to IT&CMA's, Project Executive, Ms Tee Yen Ching :

Q1) Are you still accepting late buyer, seller and or media registrations ?

A1 - We are now accepting only trade buyer registration and not hosted buyers. Trade buyers may also come onsite to register. Sellers on the other hand will only be accepted selectively. Media registrations are accepted, but only accreditation is given, no hosted status. 

Q2) Do you allow travel industry visitors who have not registered to enter the show ? 

A2 - Our exhibition is open for Trade Visitors on all 3 days. Pre-registration is available online at www.itcma.com.sg and there is a nominal charge of US$10 per visitor.

Q3) Have you had any cancellations of buyers and / or sellers since the Bali explosion ?

A3 - As at today, we have not had any cancellations from either buyers or sellers due to the Bali bomb blasts. In fact, the Bali MICE pavilion just confirmed their participation following the explosions.

Following the Bali bomb blasts security has become even more of a major concern and TAT and TTG Media Asia issued the following statement:

"The Land of Smiles (ed-Thailand) has always been known as a peaceful country with no incident of terrorism reported so far. The country enjoys political and economic stability and the Thais have always shown respect for people of all races and religions.

Notwithstanding, the organisers of IT&CMA will be working closely with the Thailand host committee to take all measures to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Steps to heighten vigilance and increase security during the three-day event will be taken."

The IT&CMA 2002 an important show for the travel and MICE industry, comes at a crucial time, and one that should not be missed.