The National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS)
has taken over the lead in giving Singapore a face at some major travel
tradeshows this year, following the Singapore Tourism Board's (STB) move
to cut back on its tradeshow presence.
Inbound players are worried that this may be symptomatic of STB’s
gradual withdrawal of local trade support. STB’s decision to skip major
tourism events such as GIBTM, WTM and ATM in 2011 struck a raw nerve
with the trade and many have interpreted the move as a snub.
According to a statement from STB to the Daily, attendance at AIME,
ITB Berlin, IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America in 2012 have been confirmed
to date, fewer than last year, when the NTO chose to exhibit in at
least eight major tradeshows.
NATAS’ initiative, which is being evaluated, is spearheaded by
Samson Tan, CEO of travel group GTMC Holdings and a member of the
association’s inbound sub-committee. It will see eight to 10 travel
companies, three to four attractions and up to 10 hotels heading to key
trade events such as ATM, WTM and CITM under the NATAS banner this year.
Participation rates are expected to be slightly higher than what
STB charges – between S$3,500 (US$2,708) and S$9,000 depending on
location – as NATAS does not have pockets deep enough to subsidise
trips.
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Wednesday, 25 January 2012
NATAS to Lead Missions
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Singapore
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