QSNCC operator eyes Chiang Mai Convention Centre

NCC president Sakchai Pattarapreechakul said operating the centre in Chiang Mai would help increase its competitiveness in the market. That means it can provide more innovative MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) activities.
Other than QSNCC, the firm currently operates Golden Jubilee Convention Hall in Khon Kaen and the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne International Convention Centre in Hat Yai. NCC is part of TCC Land, the country’s leading property developer, owned by billionaire Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi.
The centre in Khon Kaen has not performed to expectations. The company plans to move out of the Northeast after the contract ends in September. In Hat Yai, business has been on the recovery path after deadly bomb attacks in recent months.
The Chiang Mai centre, costing Bt1.8 billion, will be completed in September, but will be open on a trial basis until next year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand will be in charge of operating the centre via a joint venture with a strong partner. The agency, which is part of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, will look for a qualified candidate next year, with the introduction of the terms of reference to invite bidding.
He said Chiang Mai showed high
 potential. The reason is not only that the Northern city is rich in cultural and natural attractions, but also the economic integration with neighbouring nations under the Economic Quadrangle scheme that comprises Thailand, southern China, Laos and Myanmar. That means economic prosperity will come to Chiang Mai, especially for the MICE business via events to promote the region.
Thailand is playing an increasing role in the MICE business in the region. However, Sakchai accepted that if the country did not have a clear direction, it would not be able to compete with its rivals, especially Singapore.
He urged the government to pay more attention by mapping out a clear policy before the implementation of the Asean Economic Community in 2015. The government should amend legislation pertaining to the MICE industry, and waive import tax on such items as souvenirs, customs and immigration. The last two are among the keys to increase convenience for MICE travellers.
Also, one of the major risks is political instability. He said the violence-ridden red-shirt demonstrations in 2010 had led to the cancellation of 30 per cent of scheduled events, while 50 per cent put their events on hold and adopted a wait-and-see approach.
“It is true Thailand is a hub for MICE in the region, but I think its role will not be established with stability if we have unclear barriers in the industry,’’ he said.
He pointed at South Korea as a good example. Its government is openly promoting this industry by giving incentives to operators. Under its initiative, if the MICE operators can draw travellers to the country by organising events, they will earn US$100 (about Bt3,000) per visitor.