Bangkok (Thailand) – October 14, 2016 – (travelindex.com) – The Thai government is presenting “Creative Thailand 2016” as a showcase for the concept of the creative economy. The nationwide campaign encompasses creative people, creative places, and creative products. Under the motto “Think Big,” it will take place from October 19 to 23, 2016, at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC). Running concurrently with “Creative Thailand 2016” are the 41st Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair (BIG + BIH), which represent the creative product sector of the event.

The creative industries are a collective term for the development of the Thai economy in the coming years, driven by creative innovation and intended to transform into a value-oriented economy. The "Creative Thailand 2016: Think Big" trade fair aims to initiate this process by promoting cultural and creative industries that bring high value to the country and strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors. This aligns with the 20-year reform program "Thailand 4.0," initiated by the government under Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha under the motto "Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability."

Suvit Maesincee, Deputy Minister of Commerce, stated: “Thailand is introducing the concept of the ‘creative economy’ as we recognize the benefits of activities that utilize creativity, knowledge, and information. Driven by changes in global markets and the technology sector, the creative economy can create jobs, prosperity, and cultural participation. We look forward to seeing it generate income and opportunities for the Thai people as these ideas take root in the Kingdom and creative minds think visionarily and collaborate with us to strengthen Thailand’s economy.”

To launch “Creative Thailand 2016”, the Department of International Trade Promotion of the Ministry of Commerce is collaborating with the Thailand Creative and Design Centre (TCDC), which is under the supervision of the Office of Knowledge Management and Development, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), Silpakorn University and the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (Public Organisation) (SACICT) to coordinate strategies and create opportunities for cooperation with the private sector, to further develop government policy and to establish new, high-quality businesses.

At "Creative Thailand 2016," various areas are offered to give visitors a comprehensive insight into the creative industries. Area 1: "Baht and Brain" provides a general overview of the components of the creative industries, while Area 2: "Creative World" offers attractions for inspiration.

Zone 3, the "Creative Quarter," will showcase a range of engaging exhibitions and entertaining activities. A 30-square-meter circular cinema will be set up, screening animated documentaries about eight top travel destinations in Thailand. These destinations have creatively transformed local values ​​into tourism revenue without compromising the cultural integrity of the local population. Visitors to the zone will receive an infographic brochure on "Startups," presenting best practices for launching creative businesses. There's also a chance to win round-trip tickets for two with Thai AirAsia. The four most creative images shared on social media with the hashtag #CreativeThailand can be submitted for the prize.

Zone 4: “Think Big” showcases outstanding products from the creative industries and offers business and financial advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. In Zone 5, the “Talk Symposium,” visitors can listen to presentations from local and international experts that promote understanding of the creative industries and inspire new startups and entrepreneurs.

After visiting the “Creative Thailand 2016” exhibition, the entire public is invited to visit BIG + BIH and discover Thailand’s creative products and services.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the TAT, said: “The ‘Creative Thailand’ project plays a crucial role in shaping the tourism industry, as we integrate it into the ‘Tourism 4.0’ concept, which encompasses two key concepts: ‘Strength from Within’ and ‘Connecting with the World’. By utilizing innovations, the tourism industry will be strengthened to attract both domestic and international tourists.”

Contact information: International Public Relations Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand Tel.: +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 4545-48 Fax: +66 (0) 2250 0246 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tatnews.org