by Joachim Fischer, Shanghai
Over 300 Buyers from 39 countries have arrived in Shanghai for the 4th IT&CM MICE fair this week. This year’s trade show, which will be held from 7 to 9 April at ShanghaiMart Expo, is aptly themed “Bridging the Global MICE Business”.
Presented by TTG Asia Media and MP International, this is the fourth instalment of IT&CM China. This dynamic partnership combines TTG’s immense experience as the leading organizer and event manager of travel shows in Asia with MP International’s vast expertise and knowledge of China. Together they witness IT&CM’s growth and success in these four years and will continue to develop this event in China from strength to strength.
Tourism-Insider is once again Media Partner of this show, and editor-in-chief Joachim Fischer and Ilja Pankow will be reporting daily directly from the fair grounds in Shanghai.
As the global economy continues its recovery, it is clear that the paradigm shift is under way: the region of Asia, particulary led by China, possesses strong demand and influence in the worldwide economy. Therefore, the theme of this year’s IT&CM China, “Bridging the Global MICE Business” aptly reflects China’s important role as a catalyst and emerging platform for international MICE ( Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions).
“Over the next three days, we will embark on a comprehensive programme that maximizes business and networking opuutunities, while allowing delegates to enjoy the sights and sounds of the host City Shanghai”, TTG Asia Media General manager Darren Ng at the opening today.
The show will feature over 230 exhibiting companies and organizations, with MICE destinations such as Xiamen and Chinese Taiwan making their debut. The IT&CM has also secured new corporate organizations from the hospitality and MICE Venue sector, and bigger participation from popular MICE destinations like Macau, Japan and South Korea.
On the buyer’s front IT&CM China will welcome some 300 buyers from 39 countries, with first-time buyers hailing from Belarus, Brazil, Israel, Lebanon, Qatar, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Tunisia and Ukraine. More Chinese associations and Symantec Software (beijiong) will source for MICE services at IT&CM China 2010 to complement their meetings and convention programme.
The IT&CM China is pleased to welcome Hangzhou as the first “Presenting City”. The capital city of Zhejiang is famous for its scenery, notably the west Lake, numerous historical sites, silk and tea. The Hangzhou Tourism Commission will play a significant part of IT&CM China this year and also play the host to some 65 international buyer and media during a post-show city tour that aims to showcase Hangzhou’s historic beaty and latest offerings as a modern cosmopolitan city.
The Business oppurtunities at IT&CM Chian will once again transcend boundaries, with buyers and sellers hailing from across China, Asia and the rest of the world. More than 2.000 participants are expected to attend business appointment sessions, trade seminars, as well as social events. As China continues to soar in Popularity as a MICE Destination, and with business generated on-site, the organizers are confident that the MICE industry will have a bright and dynamic future.
Darren Ng is also pleased to announce that IT&CM China 2011 will be held at ShanghaiMart Expo from 13 to 15 April 2011. If Tourism-Insider readers are interested to participate in next year’s IT&CM China in Shanghai, just send a mail and ask Joachim Fischer for more information.
IT&CM China is supported by STTA (Shanghai Tourism Trade Association), SCEIA (Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Industries Association), IAPCO (International Association of Professional Congress Organisers), PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association), ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association), SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Executives) China and SITE Hong Kong Chapter.
Tourism-Insider, one of the media partners of IT&CM China, will continue to bring you news and photos from the show. Keep on visiting and please also check the picture gallery at www.tourism-insider.com.
Our pictures show some impressions of Shanghai, the opening press conference, and the registration.
