Aiming to promote the strengths of Macao´s convention and exhibition industry and to attract a greater number of renowned MICE events to Macao, a delegation of three from the Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Bureau (IPIM) led by IPIM’s Executive Director Irene V.K. Lau, went to Las Vegas, USA, from 14 to 16 October to participate in IMEX America 2014, organised by the IMEX Group.
IMEX America is currently the largest worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events in the Americas. The event has been growing, attracting over 2,600 exhibitors, 2,690 qualified buyers and 10,000 visitors from 150 countries and regions each year. Exhibitors of IMEX America include government tourist authorities from around the world, councils for the promotion of the MICE industry, hotel operators, convention and exhibition centres, technology service providers, airlines, convention and exhibition centres, international chambers of commerce and business associations, destination management companies, conference and public relations industry, transport and tour operators as well as publishers of MICE-related publications.
During the three-day event, IPIM held a promotional session to introduce the business environment and advantages of Macao´s MICE industry. IPIM´s Executive Director Irene V.K. Lau promoted the advantages of Macao´s MICE industry and IPIM´s “One-Stop Service” for MICE Bidding and Support in Macao to over 30 conference organisers, representatives of leading enterprises, destination managers, conference and public relations industry, with a view of expanding the international tourism market and to attract a greater number of international events to the city.
IPIM´s representatives also visited the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for friendly exchanges and networking. Both parties exchanged valuable opinions on how their respective governments could support the development of the exhibition industry through incentives and other measures.
Furthermore, a promotional counter was set up by IPIM at the Macao Pavilion in the IMEX America 2014 venue, to promote its “One-Stop Service” for MICE Bidding and Support in Macao. IPIM also participated in more than 20 business matching sessions arranged by the Organiser and conducted discussions with potential buyers, as well as to promote Macao as an ideal destination for conventions and exhibitions. Other exhibitors in the Macao Pavilion included the Macau Government Tourist Office, local travel agencies and professional conference organisers, aspiring to explore the international tourism market and to promote Macao´s MICE environment and products.
