Newly appointed Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mrs Phornsiri Manoharn, attended the 2007 annual general meeting of the Thai Federation of Provincial Tourist Associations ((TFOPTA) between 21-23 January 2007 and briefed participants on the country’s new tourism policy.

The key objective of the meeting, jointly organised by the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) and Thai Federation of Provincial Tourist Associations, was to promote regional tourism.

The federation is an umbrella organization of 34 Thai travel and tourism-related associations, clubs and societies based in 34 provinces around Thailand. The federation plays a vital role in the development of tourism infrastructure, capacity building, and public relations and marketing activities in order to strengthen the tourism industry nationwide and boost Thailand’s competitive position. As advisors to the federation of provincial tourist associations, representatives of TAT offices were also present.

With Thailand aiming to achieve 14.8 million in visitor arrivals and 585 billion baht in foreign exchange earnings in 2007, and in the face of new challenges and intensified competition in the international arena, it is imperative that the Thai tourism industry, comprising state and private sector players, agree on a strategic direction and adopt an integrated and synergistic approach to promoting sustainable tourism.

The annual general meeting provided an ideal forum for networking and dialogue between ‘stakeholders’. The TAT governor outlined Thailand’s 2007 domestic and international tourism marketing plans. Tourism-related operators in central Thailand met with their regional counterparts as well as with representatives from central and provincial administrative offices to identify issues and concerns, exchange ideas on ways to better promote sustainable tourism, and discuss appropriate solutions.

Active dialogue paved the way for increased cooperation between TAT and provincial tourism-related agencies and organizations.

The meeting was held at the Iyara Park Hotel and Resorts, in Uthai Thani province. Following the meeting, TAT organized a study trip to Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary for members of the press and observers.

Web site:
Tourism Council Of Thailand (TCT)
www.thailandtourismcouncil.org