TAT to promote medical and wellness tourism

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is promoting the country as the medical and wellness hub in Asia, against head-on competition from Hong Kong and South Korea, by organising the Medical and Wellness Tourism Trade Fam Trip.

The Bt10-million event from September 11-14 will be a platform for 150 company buyers from 27 nations worldwide to meet with 80 local operators of spa, medical, beauty and salon, and other services, Vilaiwan Twichasri, TAT's deputy governor for tourism products and business, said yesterday. Thailand has advantages over rivals, such as strong medical professionalism, especially innovative technology in treatment. Traditional and Western massage services and the use of herbs are also recognised, while various tourism products are available as options for foreign patients and tourists undergoing treatment. Most importantly, prices are reasonable. The event is expected to be held annually as part of TAT's plan to increase foreign arrivals by tapping niche markets. This year, TAT will offer three days for foreign buyers to visit medical and spa sites to get a real touch. They can choose the destination they are interested in. Trading will be on the first day of the event. Many businesses have shown interest, such as Bumrungrad Hospital, because it is the first trade show in Thailand for the medical and spa business. However, TAT will select only those with high service quality. The foreign target markets include Australia, China, Russia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam. Especially Russia and China will be getting a big effort from TAT to attract them to come here for medical treatment and plastic surgery, he added.

Sourced: nationmultimedia