For the first time, the idyllic Southern Thai island resort of Phuket is to be the venue of the annual B2B trade show, the 19th Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to the Greater Mekong Subregion (TTM+) 2020.
To be organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) between 1-3 June, 2020, at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa under the theme of “New Shades of Responsible Travel”, the event will upgraded with a broad range of qualitative improvements to minimise its ecological impact while maximising its economic and commercial impact for both buyers and sellers.
In line with the TAT strategy to focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, this year’s edition will be an entirely “green meeting” and help position Phuket as a Responsible Tourism destination, with zero waste and total environmental protection.
TAT is projecting attendance by 350 quality international buyers and 370 quality sellers. Preference will be given to buyers specialising in Responsible Tourism, Health and Wellness, CBT and DMC.
Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the TAT said that Phuket was chosen as the venue of the TTM+ 2020 because it has all the requisite facilities and services for hosting such an event. It also has necessary support systems in place by both the government agencies as well as the private sector.
The business appointment process has been streamlined by segmenting the appointments into three special niche groups: Responsible Tourism, Health and Wellness, and DMC Tour Operators.
To enhance the quality of exhibitors, first-time sellers are being give special privileges. Entrepreneurs who give importance to environmental protection are being prioritised along with DMCs, tourist attractions and entertainment venues. Entrepreneurs from emerging destinations and former winners of the Kinnari National Tourism Awards will get a 50% discount.
The buyer selection has been streamlined to prioritise high-potential and first-time buyers, especially from emerging markets; such as, Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe, etc. Repeat buyers will be evaluated on the basis of a positive appointment fulfillment record.