The Taiwan External Trade Development Council invited Julia Douglas, managing editor of MICE in Asia for a four-day trip to Taipei, to find out more about the convention and exhibition facilities and services available in the capital of Taiwan. Arrangements were also made to meet exhibition and event industry players in the city and, a one-to-one interview with Walter Yeh, the executive vice president of TAITRA. She also had the opportunity to experience first hand, the spa services offered by Chang Gung Memorial Hospital – Taiwan is now looking at expanding medical tourism into the country.

As a small country, Taiwan is fast becoming a business tourism destination. The country, hosts several major international exhibitions such as on bicycles, electronic, manufacturing and green environment.

TAITRA a non-profit foundation works with business and trade associations in Taiwan and the government, to promote the country’s industry abroad, as well as international trade. The exhibition industry has become Taiwan’s platform in promoting products and services of the country.

Currently, Taipei is ranked as number two best destination in Asia and eleven in the world according to the 2010 ranking by ICCA. In terms of organising congresses, Taiwan is number four in Asia and 23rd in the world.