CHIANG MAI — The Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2025, Thailand’s premier B2B tourism fair, concluded on June 6 at the Royal Park Rajapruek in Chiang Mai. It marked a milestone with its carbon-neutral designation and a strong focus on sustainability, culture, and digital transformation — aligning with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025 initiative.
Sustainability at the Forefront
This year’s TTM+ was officially recognized as a carbon-neutral event, showcasing Thailand’s leadership in eco-friendly tourism. Organizers implemented comprehensive measures to reduce environmental impact, including partnerships with power authorities, waste-recycling programs, and repurposing of event materials. Bamboo installations and furniture were donated post-event, and numerous hotels followed carbon-footprint protocols.
Business and Cultural Exchange Drive Impact
The three-day event brought together 406 international buyers from key markets—including China, Europe, Southeast Asia—and emerging regions such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Of these, 143 were first-time attendees, demonstrating expanding global interest.
On the Thai side, 450 seller booths participated—a 4.65 % increase from 2024—featuring 50 Thailand Tourism Award winners and 30 exhibitors from “hidden gem” provinces.
Together, they generated over 13,000 scheduled business meetings, with an estimated economic impact of THB 4.29–4.3 billion in tourism revenue (ttrweekly.com).
Thematic Highlights: Culture, Wellness, Technology
The event featured the “TTM Talk” series under the theme “The Soul of Thailand: 3F Essentials”, spotlighting culinary traditions, spiritual fulfillment, and Thai textiles. Cultural showcases promoted Lanna heritage through wellness workshops, culinary experiences, and artisan demonstrations.
The Travel Tech zone exhibited AI-driven platforms—such as Smart Business AI and AR-based tools—aimed at empowering tourism professionals with digital solutions for the evolving market.
Government Endorsements and Strategic Vision
Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong underlined TTM+ 2025’s role as a catalyst for sustainable tourism innovation:
“TTM+ is giving Thailand’s tourism supply chain greater efficiency and competitiveness … delivering measurable economic value and reinforcing Thailand’s recovery in 2025.”
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool added that the event connected opportunities with actionable outcomes, empowering Thai SMEs for regional and global markets .
Legacy and Forward Outlook
Now in its 22nd edition, TTM+ 2025 solidified its standing as Southeast Asia’s premier tourism trade platform, with sustainability taking center stage. As Chiang Mai closes the curtain on this year’s edition, the fair leaves behind a powerful message: responsible tourism, cultural pride, and digital savvy form the cornerstone of Thailand’s vision for a resilient and inclusive tourism future. (zai)