The state-owned Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) believes that as a result of its attendance at a recent exposition in Melbourne, as many as 15,000 Australians will visit Thailand to attend meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition functions, bringing in more than 630 million baht ($16.4 USD) to the economy, from now until 2010.

At least 21 events will be held in Thailand following talks between TCEB and 30 potential corporates, associations, incentive houses and tour agents at the Asia Pacific Incentive and Meeting Expo (AIME 2005) in Melbourne, TCEB director general Peerapong Oeusoonthornwattana said in a statement.

Among the events to be held in Thailand are IBM Australia 2006-2008, which is expected to have 3,000 participants and generate 150 million baht ($3.9 USD), July Lane Consulting with up to 3,000 participants bringing in 120 million baht ($3.1 USD), and the Zonta International Conference 2010 which has around 3,000 members, he said.

'The TICA delegation to the forum included 18 hoteliers and three tour operators from Thailand.

After the Melbourne trip, representatives from TCEB, Thai Airways International (Singapore office), and American Express did a one-day roadshow in Singapore to promote Thailand as a regional MICE hub.