More countries to exhibit at ITB Asia

This year’s ITB Asia will be attended by more national tourism organisations (NTOs) than in previous years.

The event’s organiser, Messe Berlin, revealed this week that it has experienced a significant upturn in demand from the NTO sector. Several countries and regions have increased their presence at the show, while others will make their first appearance at the event, including Visit Finland, Kenya Tourism Board, Armenian National Tourism Organization, South Pacific Tourism Organisation, Greek National Tourism Organization, Beijing Office, Reunion Island Tourism Board and Russia’s Federal Agency for Tourism. Brand USA, the new tourism promotion board for the US, will also be present for the first time.

“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,” he added.

The increased demand from NTOs has contributed to an overall rise in the sale of exhibitor space this year. ITB Asia 2013 is now completely sold out, four months ahead of the event. Messe Berlin also revealed that floor space booked by Chinese and Japanese exhibitors has more than tripled compared to last year, while the US has doubled its presence and Russian exhibition space has increased 70%.

The sixth instalment of ITB Asia will run from 23-25 October 2013 at the Suntec Singapore Exhibition & Convention Centre.