Global MICE Ranking Places Bangkok Among the Best, Bolstering Thailand's Regional Leadership in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions
Thailand Breaks Record in International Conferences, Aims for Top 20 Global Spot
Thailand's Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector has witnessed a remarkable surge, with the country attaining unprecedented recognition on the global stage. Accorded by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Thailand's performance in hosting international conferences reached an all-time high in 2024.
In the latest global rankings, announced at IMEX Frankfurt 2025, Thailand showcased a significant increase in ICCA-qualified meetings, rising from 143 events in 2023 to 158 in 2024. This progress propelled Thailand to 25th globally and 5th in the Asia Pacific region, making it the top ASEAN country in terms of hosting international conferences.
Bangkok, the vibrant capital city, has played a pivotal role in this growth. Securing 7th place globally and 3rd place in the Asia Pacific region among city rankings, Bangkok has emerged as a burgeoning global hub for professional meetings and events. This achievement is underpinned by its dynamic culture, renowned hospitality, and robust infrastructure, bolstered by state-of-the-art convention centers, luxury hotels, and world-class connectivity.
The surge in international recognition poses an opportunity for Thailand to set even more ambitious targets. With its growing appeal to the Asian region and the contribution of approximately 200 billion baht annually to the Thai economy, the MICE sector is poised to generate further direct revenue and stimulate investment, particularly in secondary cities.
The continued growth of Thailand's MICE industry is testament to its strategic position, strong economic performance, and growing tourism infrastructure. Beyond Bangkok, secondary cities like Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, and more have demonstrated impressive MICE performance, expanding beyond the capital city and signaling a thriving industry that is no longer limited to principal tourist destinations.
In the 2024 ICCA ranking, 13 Thai cities were featured, illustrating the nation's commitment to establishing itself as a global hub for international conferences and events. The rise of Thailand in the global MICE landscape is a powerful catalyst for growth and an essential pillar of the "Thailand 4.0" policy, which prioritizes knowledge-driven industries, innovation, and high-value tourism.
Sources: ICCA, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC)
- Thailand's rising position in international conferences could foster further investment in its personal finance and business sectors.
- The strength of Thailand's economy, coupled with its dynamic culture and infrastructure, makes it an attractive destination for international tourism, shopping, and sports enthusiasts.
- The surge in global MICE events has a ripple effect on Thailand's lifestyle, with an increase in demand for home-and-garden, technology, and transport services.
- The rise of Thailand in the global MICE landscape is expected to fuel economic growth and stimulate the development of various industries, including finance and sports.
- Thailand's robust infrastructure and world-class connectivity are key factors contributing to its success in attracting international conferences and events.
- The continued growth of Thailand's MICE industry underscores its potential in transforming the country into a leading global hub for professional meetings and events.
- As Thailand gains more international recognition, it is not only the economy that benefits but also the promotion of its vibrant culture and lifestyle on a global scale.
- The success of Thailand's MICE sector extends to various aspects of the economy, from business and finance to sport and personal-finance services.
- The growth in international conferences held in Thailand demonstrates the country's potential to be among the top 20 global spots for hosting such events, attracting more businesses and investors from around the world.
- Thailand's weather, with its tropical climate attracting visitors year-round, further enhances its appeal as an ideal destination for conferences, events, and vacation.
