Thailand has signed an MOU with the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (World Philately Federation) or FIP to serve as host of the World Philatelic Exhibition in Bangkok in 2013. A cooperation agreement with the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) was also signed in support of the event. With the full backing of the private sector, the event will provide a boost to Thailand’s MICE industry and attract tourists as well as stamp lovers and collectors from around the world. It is projected that the event will generate over 2 billion baht in revenues.

TCEB President Mr. Akapol Sorasuchart said "As one of the co-sponsors, TCEB has worked closely with Thai Post Co Ltd as the government agency responsible for promoting international exhibitions in Thailand. The event will also mark the accomplishment of some of our key targets under the ‘Believe in Thailand’ campaign and will also demonstrate Thailand’s potential as a global MICE destination. The World Philatelic Exhibition offers an important platform to highlight Thailand’s unique strengths, including its high quality professional services, world-class infrastructure, international standard facilities, and a wide choice of venues. Thailand also offers unrivalled business opportunities that further add value for business visitors and investors.

“The signing of this cooperation agreement between TCEB and Thai Post Co Ltd will contribute to the success of the 2013 World Philatelic Exhibition and bring benefits to Thailand. The cooperation will involve overseas market promotions, including public relations activities, a reception banquet and pavilions for overseas buyers.”

Thailand will host the World Philatelic Exhibition THAILAND 2013 - World Stamp Exhibition from 2 – 14 August, 2013, on the 130th anniversary of the launch of Thailand’s postal service and the issue of the country’s very first postage stamp. Thailand has hosted the event three times in the past- once every 10 years - in 1983, 1993, 2003 - as well as hosting the World Youth Stamp Exhibition in 1999.

"TCEB believes that the World Philatelic Exhibition will provide an excellent opportunity to build international confidence in Thailand’s trade fair and exhibitions industry among participants and visitors from around the world. It will also contribute to the exchange of knowledge among members of the global philatelic community. We expect the event to attract up to 100,000 visitors, including 10,000 overseas participants, generating over 2 billion baht for the country. Hosting this event also confirms Thailand’s readiness to host major international events including the World Expo 2020." Mr. Akapol concluded.

This is the fifth time in Thailand has been granted the privilege of hosting the World Philatelic Exhibition. And as with all previous events, once again we are honoured that Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn has graciously agreed, as Patron of the event, to preside over its inauguration and deliver the opening address. The event will also feature an exhibition of the personal collection of Her Royal Highness

Aside from marking the 130-year anniversary of the Thai postal service, this event will also celebrate 10 years of operation of Thailand Post Co Ltd., formed by the privatization of the former Communications Authority of Thailand (CAT) in 2003.

The World Philatelic Exhibition will take place from 2 - 14 August 2013 at the Royal Paragon Hall 1-3, 5th floor, Siam Paragon, Bangkok. The event will feature not only some unique postage stamp collections, but also displays of other rare and valuable collectibles from around the world. A stamp contest and competition of OTOP products will also be held as part of the event, with an international panel of judges from member countries and representatives of countries submitting collections for display. Collectors and non-collectors alike are most welcome to join the World Philatelic Exhibition 2013.