Khon Kaen banking on 2027 Travel Mart event

The first Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) slated for Khon Kaen next year is meant to be a stepping stone for the Northeast and second-tier cities, lifting international visitor growth by 20% over two years thanks to new infrastructure and products.

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

The TTM+ 2027 will be the largest business opportunity for the city and the Northeast, said Nattiya Tantasook, president of the Tourism Council of Khon Kaen.

Khon Kaen never hosted such a large event, even though the city has numerous facilities such as hotels, an airport, malls, a convention centre, and Srinagarind Hospital to accommodate foreign tourists, she noted.

“Khon Kaen has several facilities similar to Bangkok that could attract both short- and long-stay foreigners,” said Ms Nattiya.

She said this trade event is expected to put the region on the global tourism map.

Poppon Kasemsan Na Ayutthaya, chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, Khon Kaen Chapter, said the city and Northeast Thailand should welcome 20% more arrivals after the event wraps next year.