On December 19, MEET TAIWAN hosted a Sustainable MICE, Taking Strides Towards Net Zero sharing event. This event showcased the significant strides Taiwan has taken in sustainability and carbon reduction efforts over the past year, achieved through guidance and incentive measures in partnership with MICE stakeholders.

To encourage international business travelers to extend their stays in Taiwan, the International Trade Administration (TITA) and the Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) collaborated to produce a travel incentive program. Scheduled to begin in 2024, the program will offer travel subsidies of up to NT$2,000 (approximately US$ 65) per person per visit and a maximum of NT$500,000 (approximately US$ 16,000) per event, aiming to promote the development of Taiwan's MICE and tourism industries.

This year, MEET TAIWAN also launched a MICE carbon footprint calculator to assist organizers and exhibitors with quickly estimating carbon emissions of their events. The convention and exhibition Product Category Rules (PCR) were also established, paving the way for organizers of Taiwanese MICE activities to pursue ISO 14067 certification starting next year. With support from the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), 25 MICE industry entities successfully reduced their carbon emissions by 148 tons, averaging a 70% reduction.

The event featured a certification ceremony for companies that have achieved international standards, plus the MICE Sustainability Awards. A highlight of the year was the collaboration between TITA and SEMI Taiwan, where the canvas used for a large banner at SEMICON Taiwan 2023 was recycled into reusable lunch bags and donated to students in disadvantaged communities, demonstrating an exemplary standard of sustainability and friendliness.

Looking ahead, MEET TAIWAN will continue to support Taiwan's MICE industry in its pursuit of sustainable development and in enhancing its international competitiveness.