Meet the world at ITB Asia as national tourism organisations expand presence at the show

SINGAPORE – With a significant increase in National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) participation, visitors can expect to experience a world of opportunities at ITB Asia 2013, the Trade Show for the Asian Travel Market, which will be held from 23-25 October at the Suntec Singapore Exhibition & Convention Centre.  
Organized by Messe Berlin (Singapore), ITB Asia reports an increased demand for exhibitor space and is completely sold out, four months ahead of the event. The sixth instalment of the annual trade show is welcoming back several exhibitors as well as a number of new participants.
NTOs in particular are increasing their presence significantly at the show, with many making a first time appearance including the Armenian National Tourism Organization, South Pacific Tourism Organisation, Greek National Tourism Organization, Beijing Office, Reunion Island Tourism Board and the Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation.
“This year we will definitely be seeing more destinations being featured. Following past successes at ITB Asia, a number of NTOs are increasing the size of their pavilions while other exhibitors which have previously shared a stand are committing to having their own booth to enjoy more exposure at the show,” said Nino Gruettke, Executive Director of ITB Asia.
“Exhibitor demand from Europe, Asia and North America have been particularly strong this year as the tourism industries continue to focus their attention on the Asia travel market. ITB Asia is really the most effective business platform for travel professionals to meet the world at one place,” Gruettke added.
ITB represents the full spectrum of tourism at all levels including the hospitality sector, aviation companies, tour operators or travel agencies, National Tourism Organisations, travel technology firms, MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) and corporate travel representatives.
A number of exhibitors have also increased their booth space bookings significantly compared to last year. For example, the Chinese and Japanese exhibitors have more than tripled their exhibition space. The US contingent has doubled its presence from the previous year, and Russia has increased by over 70% in the search for more ASEAN travel dollars.
Other new exhibitors at this year’s show include Visit Finland, Kenya Tourism Board and The USA Brand USA Pavilion - Discovery America among others.
Last year, the show attracted close to 8500 attendees, representing over 90 countries. ITB Asia is also a partner event of TravelRave, a mega travel and tourism festival week organised by the Singapore Tourism Board.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews