The Government intends to develop Chiang Mai into a “MICE
City” in the ASEAN region and use the center to stimulate the local economy.
The Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition
Center Commemorating His Majesty’s 7th Cycle Birthday Anniversary, also known
as the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center, has been
established as part of the celebrations of His Majesty the King’s seventh
cycle, or 84th, birthday anniversary in 2011.
Construction of the center will be completed in March
2013. When it is finished, the Chiang Mai International Convention and
Exhibition Center will become the largest convention center in Southeast Asia.
Deputy Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports Seksan Narkwong said that the
center would accommodate a growing number of visitors after the realization of
the ASEAN Community in the next two years. Its operations would also respond to
the Government’s policy to achieve the tourism revenue target of two trillion
baht by 2015.
Located in Chang Phuak subdistrict, Mueang district, the
center covers an area of 521,600 square meters and can seat up to 10,000
participants. About three billion baht has been used to construct the center,
which is a 10-minute drive from the city of Chiang Mai. Various facilities will
be offered, such as WiFi Internet, a business center, a post-office, a prayer
room for Muslims, a food center, restaurants, VIP rooms, a first-aid room,
convenience stores, souvenir shops, and ATM booths.
The Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition
Center will also host various events, such as concerts and other cultural
shows. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports believes that the center would help
expand the MICE industry in Chiang Mai by 10 percent a year. A proposal has
been made for linking the center with Chiang Night Safari and the Royal Flora
Ratchaphruek, in terms of marketing.
It is expected that the first activity will be held at
this center in May 2013. Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul revealed
that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment would host the Asia-Pacific
Water Summit at the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Center
in June 2013. The next Asia Cooperation Dialogue will take place at this
center, as well, in 2015.
Recognized as a regional aviation hub for the Greater
Mekong Subregion, Chiang Mai is now a popular long-stay destination, a medical
tourism center, and an education hub. It is rich in culture and traditions and
boasts numerous tourist attractions that have become a magnet for both local
and international visitors.
(thailand.prd.go.th)