Bangkok, 20 October, 2016 – The creative economy concept is now being showcased in Thailand after the launch of “Creative Thailand 2016: Think Big” Expo at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC). The event, which was opened by Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak, is taking place from 19 to 23 October, 2016.

With the slogan “All creative products from creative people in one creative place”, the event is aimed at kick-starting the creative economy in Thailand by showing business people and entrepreneurs the benefits of creative innovation, and how it can ensure a more value-based economy. This aim is in line with Thailand 4.0, a reform programme being charted by the Royal Thai Government to ensure “Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability”.

Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak said “The world is changing and becoming more connected than ever before and this is driving the creative economy. The “Creative Thailand 2016: Think Big” Expo will support cultural and creative industries with high value to the nation. We want to build links between the public and private sector, so we can boost the economy and employment and ensure Thailand takes its rightful place in the world as a dynamic, IT-savvy and creative nation”.

There are five zones to give visitors a better understanding of the Creative Economy. Zone 1: “Baht and Brain” gives a general overview while Zone 2: “Creative World” has attractions to inspire creativity among Thai businesses. Visitors to Zone 3 will find a “Creative District” with interesting exhibitions and activities as well as a circular cinema showing documentaries about culturally sustainable destinations in Thailand. Visitors to this zone can pick a “Startups” info-graphic booklet that gives best practice information about starting up creative industry businesses. Zone 4: “Think Big” will display creative economy products and provide a consulting service for people considering new ventures. Zone 5, “Talk Symposium” is where entrepreneurs can attend talks from local and international experts who can create understanding of the Creative Economy and inspire new start-ups.

In parallel with the Creative Thailand 2016, at BITEC, there is the 42nd Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair (BIG + BIH), which show off some creative products and services. In addition, all visitors have the chance to win return air tickets for two from Thai AirAsia by posting creative pictures and sharing them on social media with the hashtag #CREATIVETHAILAND.

“The Creative Economy will generate jobs and wealth while creating new streams of income for the Thai people. I hope that all visitors to Creative Thailand 2016 are inspired by the event and go on to “Think Big” and work with us to grow Thailand’s economy,” said Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak.

To see more images of this event, please visit our Photo Library: Creative Thailand 2016.

Contact Information 
International Public Relations Division