Those offices need to prepare more aggressive marketing plans to boost the country's exports to each targeted market. This is needed to ensure the ministry's export growth target of 12.5 per cent to US$145 billion (Bt5 trillion) for this year will be achieved.

Offices in those countries that have already inked a free-trade agreement with Thailand should extract more export and investment benefits from the pact. - The Nation.

Thai tour fair to focus on culture

The Thailand Tourism Festival 2007 - the annual travel and tourism showcase event targeting Thai and expatriate residents - will be held from June 7-10 at Challenger Hall 1-2 of the Impact Muang Thong Thani Exhibition Centre between 10am-9pm.

This event will be held in conjunction with the Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2007 for international trade visitors and consumers and will help to further boost the publicity and promotional value of Thai tourism products and services.

This year, the festival will include many activities to promote the preservation of Thai culture, traditions and local lifestyles through villages in four regions.

Special traditional parades from each of the four regions will be held, along with stage performances to demonstrate local folklore, plays, Thai puppet performances, Khon dance and other cultural activities.

Over 300 exhibitors, including tour operators, travel agents, diving schools and equipment, spas, hotels and accommodation, airlines, golf courses, car rental, souvenirs, local handicrafts, local foods, and entertainment suppliers are expected to participate.

Seminars will also be organised for tourism experts and interested members of the public to discuss new travel trends, sustainability and marketing. - The Nation.