India's MICE Market Needs an Uplift

India’s booming economy and rising number of business visitors have contributed to the spectacular expansion of the country’s outbound meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) travel sector. Unfortunately, the same is not the case for the inbound MICE market. India attracts less than 1% of the worldwide MICE industry despite its extensive history, tourist attractions and new economic centres.

One of the significant factors hurting India’s inbound MICE sector is the need for more conference and exhibition facilities. Large-scale conventions, trade shows and meetings rely heavily on these locations. Sadly, India’s conference facilities have limited capacity and amenities, making it challenging to host international MICE events.

Attracting foreign delegates also requires an adequate transportation infrastructure, such as well-connected airports and a dependable public transit system. While many of India’s larger cities have international airports, secondary cities’ potential as MICE destinations depends in no little part on their accessibility.

Setting Things Right Funding the construction of modern conference and exposition halls in strategic locations is essential. India’s potential to host international MICE events may be significantly improved by expanding current facilities and constructing new venues with contemporary amenities. Collaboration and infrastructure development are two areas where public-private partnerships may be crucial.

Promoting India as a destination for international events requires highlighting the country’s rich cultural history, one-of-a-kind attractions and welcoming business climate. Bringing in foreign MICE delegates may be facilitated by working with tourist boards, industry groups and internet marketing platforms to highlight India’s best features.

Other factors to take note of are liberal policies, minimal cacophony of socially active groups, safety, cleanliness, efficiency and curbing the hooliganism which haunts single or group travellers.