The UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry successfully hosted its 2026 Asia-Pacific Conference in Bangkok, bringing together more than 260 exhibition industry professionals from across Asia and other global markets. The two-day flagship regional gathering took place from 5–6 March 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, one of Thailand’s leading venues for international conventions and exhibitions.
The event was hosted in partnership with the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), reinforcing Thailand’s growing position as a major hub for the global exhibitions and business events industry.
Industry Leaders Discuss Key Trends Shaping the Exhibition Sector
The UFI Asia-Pacific Conference 2026 served as a key platform for industry leaders, organisers, venue operators, and service providers to exchange ideas and insights on the future of exhibitions. The conference programme focused on major trends transforming the global events industry, including global trade shifts, supply chain challenges, technological innovation, and evolving client expectations.
Speakers and panelists explored how the exhibition industry can adapt to changing market dynamics while continuing to support business growth and international collaboration.
Alongside the main conference sessions, UFI also hosted meetings of its Associations Committee and the Asia-Pacific Chapter, enabling members to strengthen regional partnerships, share market intelligence, and collaborate on future initiatives.
Strong Support from Thailand’s Government and Business Events Sector
The conference received strong backing from Thailand’s government and business events sector. Key addresses were delivered by Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok; Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director General of the Department of International Trade Promotion; and Supawan Teerarat, President of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
Dr. Supawan Teerarat highlighted the importance of hosting such a prestigious international event in Thailand. She noted that welcoming the UFI Asia-Pacific Conference aligns with TCEB’s mission to position the country as a leading global destination for exhibitions and business events.
According to Dr. Teerarat, collaboration between UFI and Thailand’s business events industry demonstrates the country’s commitment to innovation, international partnerships, and industry growth across the Asia-Pacific region.
UFI Highlights Asia-Pacific as a Key Growth Market
Chris Skeith, CEO and Managing Director of UFI, emphasised the strategic importance of the Asia-Pacific market for the global exhibition industry. He noted that the region remains one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing exhibition markets worldwide and is home to the largest UFI membership base.
Skeith stated that bringing the industry community together in Bangkok once again highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and cross-border partnerships. He also pointed out that the discussions during the conference reflected the strong ambition, innovation, and growth potential within the Asia-Pacific exhibition sector.
The 2026 conference held special significance as Bangkok is the hometown of Panittha Buri, the current President of UFI. Skeith expressed appreciation to TCEB and the host city for delivering a successful event and providing a welcoming environment for international delegates.
Delegates Experience Bangkok’s Culture and Attractions
In addition to the conference programme, delegates were given the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Thailand through curated post-conference tours around Bangkok. Participants visited some of the city’s most iconic temples, neighbourhoods, and cultural landmarks, offering a deeper experience of the country often referred to as the “Land of Smiles.”
These networking and cultural activities helped strengthen professional relationships while showcasing Thailand’s tourism and hospitality sector to global industry leaders.
Upcoming UFI Conferences Announced
Looking ahead, UFI confirmed that its next major regional gathering will be the UFI European Conference, scheduled to take place from 3–5 June 2026 in Izmir, Türkiye.
UFI also announced that the 2027 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference will be hosted in Bali, Indonesia, in collaboration with the Indonesian Exhibition and Convention Association (IECA).
With growing participation and increasing global attention, the UFI Asia-Pacific Conference continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the exhibition industry and strengthening collaboration across international markets.
