The 30th IT&CM Asia and 25th CTW Asia-Pacific 2022 marked the event’s first-ever hybrid edition. It featured a show floor of activities and entertainment by major pavilions, increased demand for targeted networking sessions, and added knowledge sessions. Welcoming over 1,200 in-person and remote delegates over three days, the 2022 show saw 363 exhibitors from 27 new and returning territories/countries including Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Monaco, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The show was attended by 414 MICE, association and corporate buyers, and over 60 media representatives. Meeting and exchanging contacts for potential business in the Asia-Pacific regions was the highlight for Team Umbrella Events’ Mi Anna Karin Johnsson, who attended for the first time.
A preview of the line-up
Navigating the post-pandemic landscape was one of the key focuses of the event this year. The Opening Keynote was presented by Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, president of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), who shared insights on critical ways the MICE industry has and should progress. There was an emphasis on the continued value of “phygital” – a blend of physical and digital events; embedded wellness; and inclusive events that are universally accessible to a diverse audience. The keynote panel included Max Boontawee Jantasuwan, president of the SITE Thailand Chapter; Waikin Wong, regional director Asia Pacific of ICCA; and moderated by Karen Yue, group editor of TTG Travel Trade Publishing. It 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. Throughout the three-day event, delegates took part in education components like the IT&CM Asia MICE knowledge sessions, CTW Asia-Pacific conference sessions, and partner event Future Leaders Forum.
Two days of exhibition and appointments
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 global NTOs, who shared their latest highlights and developments during Brand Engagement sessions over two days. Over 30 shortlisted buyers heard about Thailand’s latest MICE updates during the 20-minute Exhibition Walkabout by TCEB. Destinations and organisations also displayed experiential elements with activities, giveaways, and entertainment at their booths. Such as taking pictures with the Magic Thailand AR Graffiti and receiving “Thai Dessert Soap”. Networking and education continued on the event’s virtual platform, EventsAir, up to 5 October – which, according to the event, was extended from 28 September due to overwhelming requests. Exhibitors and buyers held appointments at the 3D Virtual Exhibition and Walk-in meets and watched the on-demand content, including knowledge sessions, brand engagements, and buyer procurement showcases.
