Meeting of MICE minds: (from left) Northstar Travel Group’s David Blansfield, Irene Chua, Bob Sullivan and Jason Young; Singapore Tourism Board’s Yap Chin Siang and Chi Chuan Poh; and Jeju CVB’s Yongpil Kim. Photo Credit: Meetings & Conventions Asia
With over 160 exhibitors, 250 buyers and more than 1,000 delegates in
attendance, the inaugural Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2024 saw the
largest gathering of MICE professionals in Singapore.
“The Meetings Show Asia Pacific represents the single largest event
launch that we have ever done,” said Jason Young, CEO of event organiser
Northstar Travel Group. “The travel industry is experiencing a period
of phenomenal growth right now, and that is particularly true for the
Pacific region… There are more MICE professionals at this event than any
event that’s taken place in Singapore.”
The Asia Pacific MICE industry is expected to expand at an annual
growth rate of 7.4% by 2032, with strong momentum coming from the
region’s rapidly growing economy and favourable business environment.
These comments were made by Yap Chin Siang, deputy chief executive of
the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), as he launched the inaugural MICE
trade show.
The upturn in travel has resulted in Singapore’s monthly visitor
arrivals hitting 1.48 million – 95 percent of the country’s pre-pandemic
levels.
“Singapore is also home to a dynamic business ecosystem with thought
leaders, investors and business meetings,” said Yap. “Apart from our
excellent connectivity, Singapore’s status is a global hub in Asia with a
vibrant calendar of events and a diverse range of cultural and leisure
experiences.”
He stressed that Singapore has the potential to be a destination
where business events can create and leave positive, lasting impacts:
“Singapore offers a neutral ground for meaningful dialogue, access to
unique tourism offerings, and maintains a stellar track record of
posting high-quality events.” Yap said.
In relation to this, STB is working on what they call a
“comprehensive legacy toolkit” that will empower organisations to create
their own legacy journey – this will be launched this June.
The organisation has also been working closely with the Singapore
Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers
(SACEOS); The association recently launched the Singapore MICE
sustainability certification, aimed at creating and certifying
businesses for adopting sustainable practices and events.