Finance Ministry Proposes Double Tax Deduction for MICE Industry
The Finance Ministry has proposed a tax measure that would allow companies to deduct twice their actual expenses for participating in domestic MICE events, running from Cabinet approval until the end of 2027. The initiative aims to boost the MICE industry, which generated over 338 billion baht in economic value and 304,932 jobs in 2025, by attracting international events and increasing high‑value tourism spending. The ministry estimates the measure could cost the state about 798 million baht in lost tax revenue but could create up to 350,000 jobs and spur annual growth of 10‑15 percent.
The Finance Ministry told the Cabinet to consider approving the principle of a tax measure supporting the MICE industry, which would allow corporate entities to deduct expenses at twice the actual cost for renting space or paying service fees to participate in domestic trade fairs, exhibitions, and product shows. The measure would be effective from the date the Cabinet approves the principle through December 31, 2027. To qualify, companies must obtain a certificate from event organizers confirming their actual participation and must comply with criteria, procedures, and conditions set by the Director-General of the Revenue Department. Lalida said the MICE sector plays a key role in driving the economy through tourism, investment, employment, and income distribution to related businesses nationwide. According to the Thailand MICE Economic and Social Impact 2025 report by the Office of the Convention and Exhibition Bureau (public organization), or TCEB, the industry generated 338,233 million baht in economic value and created 304,932 jobs in 2025. The Revenue Department previously had a similar tax measure for domestic exhibitions and trade shows in 2022, allowing double deductions, which expired on December 31, 2022. The new proposal aims to continuously support the MICE sector, attract international events, increase spending by high‑value travelers, and boost hotels, restaurants, transport, tourism, and related services, while distributing income to regions and localities and positioning Thailand as a premier destination for international MICE activities. The Finance Ministry estimates about 3,800 companies will use the benefit, with annual participation costs of around 3.99 billion baht, resulting in an estimated tax revenue loss of 798 million baht. However, the ministry anticipates the measure will increase revenue and employment in the MICE sector and related businesses, projecting that MICE could generate 350,672 jobs for Thailand and grow by 10‑15 percent annually if supported. Lalida added that the measure is not only intended to cut costs for participating businesses but to use tax incentives as a stimulus for more economic activity, from conferences and exhibitions to trade shows, linking income to hotels, restaurants, travel, transport, and local services, with the goal of attracting more international events and shifting tourism from volume to high‑value creation. The Office of the Convention and Exhibition Bureau endorses the approach, while the Office of the Council of State said it falls within the Cabinet’s authority.
