Press Room

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.

ICONSIAM, a global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, developed by Siam Piwat Group, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation, and Charoen Pokphand Group is commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China by hosting Chinese New Year 2025 celebration with an investment of over US$ 4.35 million (150 million Baht).

The investment to honour the 50-year milestone features sculpture exhibition, cultural displays and performances as well as, a vibrant Chinese street market.

This year marks stated Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, managing director of ICONSIAM Co Ltd,
a significant milestone in Thai-Chinese relations, celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. I In collaboration with its partners he added, ICONSIAM presents as exhibition ‘Lancang to Chao Phraya’ showcasing sculptures that convey the cultural and spiritual connections from the Chinese river to the Chao Phraya.

The exhibition celebrates this momentous occasion by fostering Thai-Chinese cultural exchange through world-class artwork. Running from January 15 to February 28 at River Park, ICONSIAM, the highlight of this exhibition is the masterpiece sculpture ‘Chubby Woman with Dragon & Naga,’ created through the first-ever collaboration between Thailand’s national artist, Dr. Preecha ThaoThong and a prominent Chinese artist Mr. Xu Hong Fei, who is famous for his iconic chubby woman sculptures.

It is expected that two million visitors including both Thais and tourists from around the world, will attend the 10-day event, and is a projected 20 percent increase in consumer spending within the shopping complex compared to previous year.

The event will make its debut in the Middle East from November 18 to 19 in Bahrain with an anticipated attendance of over 500 visitors and participants from over 50 countries.  It will be held at the Kingdom’s most ultramodern facility the Exhibition World Bahrain.

Under the theme ‘Gastronomy Tourism: a driver of economic diversification and inclusion’, the Forum will convene, through panel discussions, presentations, masterclasses and thematic visits. International experts will explore the transformative potential of Gastronomy Tourism to become a driver of economic diversification and inclusion, fostering social and environmental sustainability enhancing regional cohesion and resilience of local communities.

Bahrain the host country will showcase its culinary heritage and vibrant culture, with the ultimate aim of making it a must-visit destination for gastronomes and tourism professionals alike.

While Exhibition World Bahrain’s offering is a culinary team dedicated to providing bespoke food and beverage services. Operating from a state-of-the-art kitchen facility spanning over 3,600 square meters, the team is well-prepared to meet diverse catering requests.

Attendees can look forward to an impressive range of cuisines, including Asian, Mediterranean, and European flavours from the venue.

Held for the first time in the Middle East, the Forum will bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and renowned chefs, to unveil how gastronomy tourism can also build a strong image for destinations, through innovative practices and initiatives around the world.

It will bring together more than 200 representatives from medium and large businesses, business associations and government structures from Russia, Malaysia, and ASEAN countries. Organised by Roscongress Foundation, the forum will be held in Kuala Lumpur from November 26 to 27.

The focus of the forum will be on the central theme of overcoming global challenges, by forging actionable partnerships and joint projects that drive socio-economic development of Russia and ASEAN countries. The event aims to consolidate the positions of key economic players in the region.

Participants of the forum, will discuss collaboration prospects between Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

They will also explore cooperation opportunities in areas such as; economics and finance, the oil and gas and chemical industries, transportation, technology, innovation, information security, science and education, medicine, tourism, and the humanitarian sector.

Focal points will be on agricultural cooperation, with discussions on food security, fertilizer supplies, and agricultural technology exchanges.

The forum will serve as an essential platform, for discussions and extensive coverage on strengthening trade and investment ties between Russia and ASEAN.

The two-day event held in Bangkok Thailand, from September 24 to 26 took place with new initiatives and educational sessions, complete with an expanded networking session.

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau announced that it will soon launch the Thailand MICE Visa Prepaid Card, crafted in partnership with VISA, said Mr Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau.

He added: “This card is designed to offer MICE travellers exclusive privileges and special discounts at various partnering establishments, including; shopping, dining, spa services, limousine services, and luggage storage.”
Singapore’s leading advancement in technology and business were this year’s focus in The Singapore Pavilion, which offered delegates and visitors a unique opportunity to engage with top innovators.

The Tech and Engagement Zone dedicated to tech exhibitors, explored the latest advancements in technology where delegates can learn how to integrate these technologies into their business meetings or events.

Sea and Air Zone spotlight on airlines and cruise industries. This zone brought key players together for focused business meetings, offering a comprehensive look at travel solutions that can elevate business events and conferences.

While the Corporate Zone was a hub, where corporate entities showcased their products and services, that are specially tailored for business events.

This year, IT&CMA and CTW APAC celebrates 32 years of fostering international MICE business in Asia-Pacific, and 27 years of cultivating Corporate Travel and Entertainment best practices among Asia-Pacific’s travel professionals.

The next ITCM&A & CTW will be held from September 23 to 25, 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The collaboration will see Tencent Cloud providing a comprehensive suite of cloud infrastructure solutions and digital services to GoTo’s business.

As part of the five-year partnership, GoTo will leverage Tencent Cloud’s technology and platform and services to support its comprehensive ecosystem.

GoTo’s engineering team will join forces with Tencent Cloud’s in-house service and architecture experts to further develop its technology, allowing the company to improve its enterprise offerings, while also boosting its consumer-centric products and strengthening user experience.

As a leading Indonesian tech company, GoTo’s strong market presence and range of services will be further bolstered by Tencent Cloud’s strong local presence, underpinned by its locally domiciled Tencent Cloud servers.

Tencent Cloud with its comprehensive global infrastructure spanning 21 geographic regions and 58 availability zones, including two data centers in Jakarta, Indonesia will be able to deliver over 400 technologies and connectivity solutions designed to drive enterprise-grade digital transformation.

By establishing local data centers, Tencent Cloud can enhance service proximity, minimise data access delays, and foster rapid digital transformation for businesses and organisations nationwide. This strategy not only ensures compliance with regulatory standards but also offers robust disaster recovery options across the Asia-Pacific region.