TTM+ 2026 Attracts Strong International Turnout Despite Global Uncertainty

By Kenny Teng

PATTAYA, June 10 (Bernama) -- Thailand's flagship tourism trade event, Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2026, has attracted strong international participation despite global economic uncertainty, reflecting continued confidence in the kingdom's tourism sector.

Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the three-day business-to-business event is being held from June 10 to 12 at the NICE Pattaya Convention and Exhibition Centre in Chonburi, bringing together 429 international buyers, 428 Thai tourism operators and more than 60 international media representatives.

TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the strong turnout highlighted Thailand's appeal as a leading travel destination and the resilience of its tourism industry.

"As TAT's annual strategic trade platform, TTM+ connects global travel buyers with Thai tourism businesses and showcases the depth, quality and diversity of Thailand's tourism offerings to the international market," she said in a statement.

More than 15,400 business appointments are expected during the event, which aims to generate new partnerships and business opportunities across the tourism sector.

International buyer participation rose 5.7 per cent from last year, with ASEAN accounting for 33 per cent of attendees, followed by East Asia (28 per cent), Europe (24 per cent) and the Americas (15 per cent).

Thapanee said the growing presence of buyers from the Americas reflected renewed demand from long-haul markets and increasing confidence in Thailand as a travel destination.

"Thai exhibitors represent a broad cross-section of the tourism industry, including hotels, tour operators, attractions, entertainment businesses, golf courses, travel technology providers, wellness resorts, hospitals and related services," she said.

In addition to pre-arranged business meetings, TAT will use the event to showcase Thailand's tourism development direction, market-ready products and partnership opportunities aimed at supporting long-term growth in the sector.

Held under the theme "Healing is the New Luxury", this year's edition places wellness and restorative travel at the centre of Thailand's tourism promotion strategy.

The event also showcases wellness products and services from all five regions of the country, alongside lesser-known destinations, or “Hidden Gems”, and the Travel with Care initiative, which promotes responsible and sustainable tourism.

-- BERNAMA