The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) celebrated 25 years in Bangkok with its 47th annual Travel Mart (PTM 2024) held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Over 900 delegates from 45 countries participated in the event, making it a significant gathering for the tourism industry.
PATA Travel Mart 2024 saw 266 exhibitors from 168 organizations and 24 regions, showcasing their products and services to 191 buyers representing 173 organizations from 31 source markets. This dynamic exchange fostered valuable connections and collaborations within the tourism ecosystem.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid highlighted the event’s significance, stating, “PATA Travel Mart 2024 exemplifies our commitment to the future of Asia Pacific tourism by being a platform for high-quality buyers and sellers from Asia Pacific and beyond. It reflects the Association’s mission to promote sustainable growth, drive innovation, and foster collaboration within the Asia Pacific region. Hosting this year’s event in Bangkok underscores PATA’s enduring partnership with Thai tourism organisations and reinforces our shared commitment to upholding Thailand’s reputation as one of the leading MICE destinations in Asia Pacific.”
The event also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PATA and the Sanya Tourism Board, marking the beginning of a collaboration on the 2024 Tropical Coastal City Tourism Event in Sanya, China. This partnership underscores PATA’s commitment to supporting tourism development in the Asia Pacific region.
A key theme throughout PATA Travel Mart 2024 was “Reimagining Responsible Tourism for a Regenerative Future.” The PATA Knowledge Forum 2024 focused on this theme, presenting in-depth discussions on the evolving dynamics of the tourism sector. The forum addressed critical areas like sustainable practices, cybersecurity, and the evolving role of travel agents, providing valuable insights and strategies for industry participants.
The PATA Travel Mart 2024 also hosted the first PATA Youth Symposium and Career Fair, a unique initiative aimed at bridging the gap between young talent and seasoned experts. Over 200 students and professionals attended, benefiting from career advancement opportunities.
The event was celebrated with a vibrant “Thai Temple Fair” inspired welcome reception hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The reception showcased Thailand’s cultural richness with traditional Phi Ta Khon and Thai Puppet performances.
The official opening ceremony on August 28, featuring a modern Muay Thai exhibition, was attended by key figures like Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand; Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office; and others.
The PATA Gold Awards Lunch, hosted by the Macao Government Tourism Office, recognized 20 recipients for their outstanding contributions in Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility. These awards highlight the importance of innovation and responsible practices within the tourism sector.
Over the course of August 28 and 29, buyers and sellers engaged in robust networking and trade sessions, exchanging ideas and forging partnerships. The event concluded with a final day of activities focused on continuing the momentum generated throughout the event.
The PATA Travel Mart 2024 enjoyed the support of several sponsors, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand as the Platinum Sponsor. Media partnerships with organizations such as Jacobs Media and Travel Daily Media further enhanced the event’s reach and impact.
The success of PATA Travel Mart 2024 underscores the vital role the Association plays in fostering sustainable and responsible tourism development within the Asia Pacific region. The event served as a platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, shaping the future of travel and tourism for years to come.
