Thailand Showcases Iconic Film Locations at TIFF 2026 to Boost Global Cinema Tourism Growth

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) promotes Thailand as a film tourism destination during the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) from September 10 to 16. The campaign “Amazing Location Thailand: From Scene to Scenic” invites filmmakers and production personnel to learn about the different filming locations in Thailand, as well as the country’s arts, culture and other tourism related activities. The goal is to help people in the industry understand the potential of the Thai film industry and build interest in telling stories that help promote Thailand.

Mr. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, said, “Thailand’s strength as a film location goes beyond scenery and production capability. Its people, culture and communities give each destination character and offer creators a deeper sense of place. Through ‘Amazing Location Thailand: From Scene to Scenic’, TAT helps bring those stories to the screen and encourage audiences to explore the places and experiences by themselves.”

The initiative forms part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) film tourism strategy under the Sub-Culture Economy, a key pillar within the broader Amazing 5 Economy framework. The strategy focuses on creating tourism value through two connected opportunities: attracting international film and media productions to Thailand while using screen content to inspire audiences to visit the destinations and experiences featured on screen. By linking creative industries with tourism, the campaign aims to transform storytelling into travel demand, creating new opportunities for businesses, local communities and Thailand’s wider Visitor Economy.

During TIFF 2026, TAT showcased this vision through a series of industry-focused activities, including a dedicated panel discussion, a special Variety Studio interview, a networking reception organised with CULTURED, and participation at the TIFF 2026 Market. Together, these engagements highlighted Thailand’s creative strengths, global production potential and the connection between cinematic storytelling and destination discovery.

The industry panel, titled “Amazing Locations: From Scene to Scenic — Place as Character: How Thailand Shapes Global Cinema?”, explored the growing importance of locations in filmmaking. The discussion focused on how destinations can become meaningful parts of a story rather than simply acting as backgrounds. Participants examined how Thailand’s landscapes, cultural identity, communities and everyday lifestyles provide filmmakers with unique elements that strengthen narratives and create memorable cinematic experiences.

TAT also expanded its international outreach through a Variety Studio interview produced by Variety Media, focusing on Thailand’s role as a film destination and the relationship between movies, places and travel inspiration. The session helped extend the campaign’s message to a wider global audience beyond the festival environment.

The networking reception held in partnership with CULTURED further strengthened connections between Thailand and the international entertainment sector. More than 50 film and creative industry professionals attended the event, providing an opportunity for TAT to present Thailand’s filming advantages, production capabilities and future opportunities to filmmakers, producers and industry representatives.

At the TIFF 2026 Market, TAT highlighted 10 specially curated filming routes across Thailand, combining potential production locations with cultural attractions, local communities and authentic travel experiences. The routes were designed to demonstrate how filming destinations can move beyond the screen and become real travel experiences for visitors inspired by movies and visual storytelling.

The showcase also reflected collaboration across Team Thailand, with participation from the Department of International Trade Promotion under the Ministry of Commerce and the Thailand Film Office under the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Their involvement presented a wider picture of Thailand’s film ecosystem, including production support, skilled professionals, infrastructure and facilities available for international projects.

Through its TIFF 2026 presence, TAT continues to position Thailand as a destination where creativity, culture and tourism connect, strengthening the country’s appeal as both a global filming hub and a source of unforgettable travel experiences.