Bangkok, 18 September 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlighted the launch of a new regional training initiative led by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) in partnership with Agoda. The “E-commerce Training for MSME Accommodation Providers in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS)” begins today in Thailand and will run through November 2025 in Cambodia, Viet Nam, Lao PDR, and China (Yunnan and Guangxi).
The programme is designed to enhance the digital capabilities of homestays, ecolodges, and guesthouses in rural and secondary destinations. By equipping these micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with practical online skills, the training supports inclusive tourism development while enabling grassroots operators to engage more effectively with global travellers.
Ms. Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO, said: “We are delighted to partner with Agoda on this important initiative. By working together across borders, we can ensure that small operators in our region are equipped with the digital tools they need to connect with global travellers and share the unique experiences of the Mekong.”
This marks the first collaboration between MTCO, Agoda, and the GMS National Tourism Organisations of Cambodia, China (Yunnan and Guangxi), Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The public–private partnership underscores the role of digital transformation in advancing regional cooperation and preparing the Mekong region to welcome a growing number of international visitors.
Delivered online in local languages and tailored to each country, the training will cover creating and managing listings on digital travel platforms such as Agoda, including uploading images and room availability, setting pricing and promotions, and engaging effectively with customer reviews. By the end of the series, participating businesses are expected to be better positioned to attract global travellers and ensure sustainable, competitive growth in the Mekong tourism economy.
Mr. Damien Pfirsch, Chief Commercial Officer at Agoda, said: “This partnership with MTCO reflects our dedication to small businesses and our tech-first approach. We expect this initiative to help bring global visibility to these accommodations and help distribute economic benefits across the GMS.”
As the secretariat of the GMS Tourism Working Group, MTCO fosters cooperation among Cambodia, China (Yunnan and Guangxi), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam, promoting the Mekong as a single tourism destination while advancing inclusive and sustainable development.
Agoda, meanwhile, is a Singapore-headquartered digital travel platform and part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG). With its technology-driven approach and global network of accommodation partners, Agoda is working with MTCO to help small operators in the Mekong region build visibility and connect with international travellers.
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