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Returning to Bangkok, Thailand, from 23 to 25 September, IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2025 will see the show’s commitment to deliver powerful thought leadership, inclusive travel experience and with robust educational content. This year’s three-day event brings together MICE and corporate travel professionals for an extensive programme of conferences, networking activities, and hands-on workshops.

Day One begins with a re-energised emphasis on education and skill-building, supported by leading global associations such as the Global MICE Collaborative such AEE, MPI, SITE, ICCA, and GBTA. Delegates can pre-register for the MICE Fundamentals: Conferences, Exhibitions & Incentive Events certification course by the Global MICE Collaborative

ICCA will lead a sustainable gastronomy in MICE activity that explores the wonders of gastronomy through the lens of sustainability and innovation. Delegates will take part in interactive experiences that encourage knowledge sharing and promote responsible practices within the business events landscape.

Delegates are able to participate in a series of hands-on activities that encourage interaction, collaboration, and cultural appreciation, providing a refreshing break from traditional business meetings while facilitating networking in an informal setting.

While Global Business Travel Association and CTW Asia-Pacific bring thoughts and ideas for delegates to have a discussion on the topic of business travel and its future resilience, with a focus on sustainability, policy, and the traveller’s well-being.

Programme Highlights of this year’s IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific are conferences on key topics namely Express Mindful Moment – “Your Smiling Heart” is a 10-minute mindfulness session led by Dr. Buathon Thienarrom, using meditative sounds to promote self-awareness.

Speed-Dating Session a five-minute roundtable engagement for selected buyers and exhibitors to encourage quality networking and business lead generation.

Tastebud Lab Conference roundtable exploration of how food as a wellness driver, is reshaping the hospitality, health tourism, and MICE landscape. From personalised nutrition, future food systems, and sustainable culinary experiences, the session uncovers how destinations can innovate for competitive advantage.

For more information, log on to www.itcma.com | www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac

Registration for IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific is available at https://itcma.com/register/

The high-profile event is designed to cater to the evolving needs of China’s rapidly changing MICE industry, is supported by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism and will take place, on September 11 and 12 in Beijing. The convex-style event will be co-located with the ITB China Business Travel Conference.

MICE Meeting Point will feature a dynamic conference stage where leading experts and innovators can present cutting-edge insights, trends, and first-hand updates shaping the future of MICE and business travel.

The event will also host a dedicated business mart area, enabling sponsors to showcase their products, solutions, and services to a highly targeted audience at branded sponsor booths and tables.  While exclusive networking events will offer valuable opportunities to connect with key industry players and decision-makers, fostering meaningful business interactions.

“Beijing has always played a significant role in advancing the development of China’s MICE industry. As a supporting unit for this event, we are deeply honoured to host such an international MICE gathering in Beijing. We look forward to fostering innovation and growth in China’s MICE industry through this event and further deepening cooperation both domestically and internationally”, commented Sun Jian, deputy director, Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism.

According to the Global Business Travel Association, China ranked first with USD372.5 billion in business travel spending (a nine percent increase) among the top fifteen countries in 2023.

By 2028, it is projected to exceed USD2.0 trillion, highlighting a robust outlook for the global business travel sector in terms of the global business travel spending. According to Trip.Biz data, cross-border business travel is also surging, with figures as of October 2024 already 34 percent higher than in 2019 and a 72 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, setting a new historical record. This growth highlights China’s expanding influence in the global business travel sector.

Beyond financial growth, the industry is also undergoing a structural transformation, shaped by advancements in artificial intelligence, sustainability initiatives, digitalisation, and hybrid meeting technologies. The demand for customised, tech-driven, and flexible MICE solutions is rising, with businesses prioritising efficiency, personalisation, and sustainability in their event planning strategies.

Over three days from October 15 to 17 at the Marina Bay Sands, ITB Asia 2025  will bring together leading destination experts, suppliers, top-tier buyers and influential thought leaders to explore the full spectrum of leisure, corporate travel, MICE and travel technology, and to shape the future of the industry across the Asia-Pacific region.

The exhibition floors of both, ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia feature an impressive roster of key industry players. Among companies and airlines, Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Disney Cruise Line, Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Resorts World Sentosa and Sentosa Development Corporation will be on hand to showcase their latest offerings. Leading hotel groups, including Banyan Group, Best Western Hotels and Resorts, Marina Bay Sands, Meliá Hotels International and Pan Pacific Hotels Group, will present their newest properties and loyalty programmes. Business Events Perth Convention Bureau will highlight Western Australia as a premier meetings and events destination.

A rich selection of national tourist boards will also be in attendance. Delegations from the Czech Tourism Board, Lithuania Travel, Malta Tourism Authority, Philippines Tourism Promotions Board, Singapore Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Tonga Tourism Authority, Tourism Association of Sarajevo Canton, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Seychelles, Visit Estonia, Visit Finland, Visit Iceland and Visit Norway will share insights into their latest marketing initiatives and travel incentives.

Regional tourist boards, including Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Department, Pattaya Variety, Penang Tourism Board, Phuket Tourist Association, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Seoul Tourism Board, Visit Almaty, Visit Rovaniemi and visitBerlin, will demonstrate how they are driving growth in their respective markets.

Meanwhile, Travel Tech Asia will host a world-class lineup of technology providers. Trip.com, Korea Tourism Startup Center, Juniper Travel Technology, Go Global Travel, Rakuten Travel Xchange, Wego, DerbySoft, RateHawk, Worldline, Flywire, RESTEL S.A., SiteMinder and SUNRATE will unveil innovations in booking platforms, payments and guest-experience management that are set to revolutionise the travel ecosystem.

The Buyer Elite Partner Programme continues to be a cornerstone of ITB Asia’s value proposition. In partnership with associations and agencies such as Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA), ASTINDO, BWH Hotels, Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA), Enterprising Travel Agent’s Association (ETAA), EVINTRA, IME Consulting, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA), Outbound and Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), United Travel Agencies and Operators Association (UTAOA), Vietnam Society of Travel Agents (VISTA) and Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), ITB Asia will deliver a hand-picked cadre of MICE, Leisure and Corporate buyers. Partners can recommend both existing clients and new prospects ensuring high-quality, pre-arranged meetings that translate into real business outcomes.

For more information, please visit https://www.itb-asia.com

An Interview with Mr. John Chan, General Manager of Shenyang New World EXPO

The newly appointed general manager of the Shenyang New World EXPO forwarded his viewpoints regarding the present situation of the convention and exhibition industry in China and challenges and future direction, as well as the distinctive strengths of the EXPO.

Shenyang, a strategic city in northeast Asia, is well-positioned to emerge as a major destination for international conventions and exhibitions, thanks to its advantageous geographical location, strong industrial foundation, and favourable policy environment.

Challenges and Future Direction of the Convention and Exhibition Industry

In recent years, the domestic economy has encountered numerous challenges, particularly due to a continuously sluggish real estate market that has caused funding shortages in related supply chains, reduced investment enthusiasm among businesses, and weakened consumer confidence, all of which have negatively impacted the overall economic environment.  Mr. Chan noted that as a result, many companies have reduced their exhibition plans due to budget cuts, with some even cancelling specific events.

Consequently, he added the industry’s growth has noticeably slowed. Many small and medium-sized convention and exhibition enterprises are struggling to survive in an increasingly competitive environment.

Given this situation, industry professionals need to collaborate and actively engage with government departments to offer insights and suggestions. On one hand, it is essential to explore innovative strategies to recapture the interest of exhibitors and attendees, thereby enhancing the appeal and influence of such events.

On the other hand, it is important to actively advocate for the government to implement supportive policies for the industry, such as tax reduction and exemption, fiscal subsidies, financial support, and other measures. These measures will help lower operating costs of relevant enterprises, alleviate financial pressure, and promote the market-oriented development within the industry.

At the same time, it is also necessary to strengthen self-discipline within the industry by standardising the organisation and operation of conventions and exhibitions and improving their quality and professionalism, so as to better position the industry to thrive in a more competitive and market-oriented environment.

Opportunities and Challenges for the Convention and Exhibition Industry in 2025

As China continues to expand its high-level opening-up to the outside world, the connections between China and the rest of the world are becoming increasingly stronger, leading to a rise in cross-border cooperation and exchanges.

Shenyang, a pivotal city in northeast China, is actively striving to establish itself as an international hub in northeast Asia. Mr. Chan noticed that local governments are increasingly recognising the importance of the convention and exhibition industry.

An increasing number of international brands, multinational enterprises, and professional organisations are seeking opportunities to participate in conventions, exhibitions, and activities in China fuelled, by the continuous improvement of China’s international influence. This will create significant market opportunities for the convention and exhibition industry.

Why is EXPO the Venue of Choice

The EXPO is one of the most state-of-the-art convention and exhibition centres in northeast China. Just a 20-minute drive from both the airport and the high-speed rail station. Its is located on the Golden Corridor adjacent to Shenyang commercial business district.

The EXPO has 24,000 square metres of gross exhibition space and 4,000 square metres of multi-functional convention, meeting and banquet space. While the surrounding area boasts various entertainment and shopping amenities with more than 20,000 high-quality guest rooms offered within a 10-kilometer radius. Guests of the EXPO benefit from the connecting Shenyang K11 Art Mall and New World Shenyang Hotel.

In terms of services, the EXPO is managed and operated by Shenyang New World EXPO (Management) Limited. SML is a subsidiary of the Hong Kong-listed CTF Services Limited with 30 years of professional experience in the management and operation of event and exhibition venues including the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Mr. Sood comes on board Messe Stuttgart India with 25 years’ experience in the trade fair industry. Leveraging on his extensive industry experience, he will lead Messe Stuttgart India’s strategic initiatives to support India’s growth in trade fair business through industry-specific events.

According to Messe Stuttgart India with Mr. Sood’s proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence is well-positioned to lead Messe Stuttgart India’s initiatives. His focus will be on advancing the company’s mission of supporting India’s evolving economy through strategic industry events that foster innovation and collaboration.

Messe Stuttgart India is a subsidiary of one of the world’s leading companies in the trade fair and exhibition industry, Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG. The parent company, Messe Stuttgart in Germany, has an impressive legacy that spans over 80 years, hosting more than 70 international fairs and congresses each year, attracting millions of visitors and exhibitors.

Meanwhile Messe Stuttgart India’s portfolio has expanded with the addition of DIDAC Skills of which the trade fair organiser has successfully organised several key events that includes DIDAC INDIA, LogiMAT India, MOLDEX India, and FASTNEX. Hence driving industry growth and reinforcing India’s vision to become a global trade fair hub.

The expansion of the ICCASkills programme in the African region supports ICCA’s global capacity-building that brings together industry providers and local authorities. Kigali, the capital city of Rawanda will be the hub for ICCAskills programme in Africa.

Having the programme in Rawanda underscores the country’s commitment to develop talent and strengthen its position as a business events destination in Africa.

Seen here is Ms. Janet Karemera, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Convention Bureau with Mr. Senthil Gopinath, Chief Executive Officer, ICCA.

In partnership with Rwanda Convention Bureau and Rwanda Events Group Ltd, ICCA will offer two ICCASkills classes in 2025.

ICCASkills is a globally recognised certification programme created by ICCA and industry experts, designed to elevate the skills and expertise of business events professionals. The programme is not only interactive, but also engage in real-world perspective bridging theory and practice with hands-on professional development.

While Rwanda is a hub for professional development in Africa making it, an ideal location for the ICCASkills initiative for upskilling and developing the regional workforce for the business events industry.

The airline has been named the exclusive founding travel partner of Kai Tak Sports Park in line with the airline’s commitment in promoting mega events in its home city.

“As the exclusive founding travel partner of Kai Tak Sports Park is a testament to Cathay’s evolution from an airline to the leading premium travel lifestyle brand we are today,” said Ms. Lavinia Lau, Cathay’s chief customer and commercial officer.

Through this strategic partnership, Cathay and Kai Tak Sports Park will introduce, the first aviation-themed immersive experience in the Greater Bay Area with the Cathay-branded West Bridge, which connects the Sung Wong Toi MTR station with Kai Tak Stadium, to engage the Hong Kong community in rekindling people’s collective memory of the airline’s journey from its roots, and World Flyer.

Kai Tak Sports Park is poised to become the largest integrated sports and entertainment landmark in Hong Kong. Cathay on the other hand, will work in close collaboration to support the sports park in delivering world-class sporting, cultural and entertainment experiences to a global audience.

At the same time, Cathay will be supporting the highly anticipated rugby tournament, the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens which will take place at Kai Tak Sports Park from March 28 to 30 this year. The event sets the stage for an exciting world-class sporting and cultural experiences that will, showcase the sports park state-of-the-art facilities solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a vibrant hub for global mega-events.

Mr. John Sharkey, KTSP’s Chief Executive Officer  and Ms. Lavinia Lau , Cathay’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer launches the exclusive travel founding partnership.

In an independent online survey carried out by market research company on behalf of The QEII Centre has found that the economic value of distraction during meetings and events has risen to an estimated GPB 20.7 billion.

Based on a survey of over 1,000 UK desk-based workers, the research builds on findings from The QEII Centre’s inaugural 2023 Distracted Economy report. It reveals that the cost of distraction in online and face-to-face meetings and events has increased from £19.9 billion in 2023 to GPB 20.7 billion.

In The QEII Centre’s new Distracted Economy report, 80 percent of desk-based workers admit to losing concentration during meetings. About 55 percent are more likely to be distracted in online meetings compared to 16 percent for in-person meetings and 27 percent who find both equally distracting.

The report also finds that senior managers are not immune, with 17 percent of senior managers and owners losing focus for half or more of in-person meetings compared to 10 percent of mid or junior managers.

Against these challenges, the report offers tangible solutions to help event planners and venues tackle the issue.

“As one of the UK’s leading conference and events venues, holding over 400 events each year, we understand the shifting meetings and events landscape, as well as the hugely important role that venues and event planners play in creating engaging and productive meeting experiences,” said Mr. Mark Taylor, chief executive, The QEII Centre.

“It is our hope that these findings inspire event planners and venues to create exceptional experiences and design meetings and events that engage delegates, enhance productivity and achieve business goals.” 

Highlights of the Distracted Economy:

• Eight in 10 desk-based workers lose concentration in meetings for some of the time
• 24 percent is the average proportion of time people are distracted during in-person meetings
• 17 percent of senior managers and owners lose focus or concentration for half or more of in-person meetings compared to 10% of mid or junior managers
• 55 percent of people are more likely to be distracted in an online meeting, versus 16 percent in an in-person meeting and 27 percent who find both equally distracting
• The top three causes of distraction are boredom (25 percent), tiredness (24 percent), and having a busy mind (23 percent)
• 56 percent of respondents expect to attend more in-person events in 2025 than they did in 2019

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre has been accredited the ‘Gold Certification for MICE Venues’ by the internationally recognised halal travel promotion company CrescentRating in December 2024. This makes HKCEC as the first MICE venue in Hong Kong to receive this certification which is the highest ranking of the certification scheme, reassuring the good experience that the exhibition centre has created for Muslim exhibitors and visitors.

The internationally recognised halal travel promotion company CrescentRating was commissioned by the Hong Kong Tourism Board to carry out a series of work, including assessing local hotels, attractions and MICE venues based on categories and standards on par with international benchmarks.  To achieve Gold Certification for a exhibition venue met several of the stringent rating requirements.

A separate prayer spaces for male and female users were added on the second floor of the exhibition venue marked with the direction of Qibla and equipped with prayer mats. While restrooms next to the prayer room are now fitted with water-friendly facilities including hand showers and ablution facilities. Dietary needs of Muslim visitors are provided halal certified food and concession stands during events with the food and beverage team, offering tailor-made Halal menus upon request.

According to Ms. Monica Lee-Müller, managing director of Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Management Limited, the presence of Muslim exhibitors, buyers, and visitors has grown notably at HKCEC. To enhance the experience of its guests, and provide them with the dedicated support, have introduced several Muslim-friendly facilities enhancing its reputation, as a Muslim-friendly travel destination.

EMITT will celebrate its 28^th anniversary from February 5 to 7 and is expected to host over 400 hosted tour operators from 60 countries, including key markets such as the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, South Africa, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Running concurrently with the exhibition, the EMITT Event Program will present a variety of inspiring activities under the theme “Redefining”. These events aim to enrich the visitor experience and develop actionable plans to address the challenges facing the tourism sector in 2025.

This year, EMITT will focus on the vision of positive tourism through its event program held alongside the exhibition. This approach aims not only to minimise waste but also, to explore new market opportunities through innovative tourism products. By adopting strategies that enhance both nature and society, the program seeks to strengthen the tourism sector while fostering creative solutions and sustainable development.

Highlighting the significant contribution of the EMITT Exhibition to the Turkish economy, tourism sector, and national branding, EMITT exhibition director Mr. Hacer Aydın stated amid the global crises and environmental challenges, shaping the future of the tourism industry is no longer optional, but a necessity.

He added, redefining tourism requires not only addressing today’s crises but also, adopting a bolder more innovative vision to create a sustainable future as we confront, the devastating impacts of the climate crisis, wars and over-tourism.