Leaders of conferences and exhibitions convene at Asia CEO Summit

Leaders of the world’s top business events organisers met at the Asia CEO Summit on 3-5 October 2023 at JW Marriott Singapore South Beach to discuss the best ways forward in investing and bringing high-quality conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions for Asian businesses.

The most influential annual gathering of global industry leaders in the region reflects the confidence and positive outlook in the economic growth of Southeast Asia where the business events industry has fully re-opened and is well positioned to recover towards pre-pandemic levels and beyond.

Co-organised by Association of Event Organisers (AEO), Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), Society for Independent Show Organisers (SISO) and UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, the premier business event drew high-profile attendees, fostered collaboration and the exchange of ideas among business leaders, and promoted the region's economic growth and development.

Among the leading global event organisers present were Informa Markets, RX, Clarion Events, Comexposium, and Messe Düsseldorf. The event welcomed industry players from China to explore opportunities in strengthening business collaboration and presence in the region. They included Shanghai Huamo Exhibition Service, Shanghai Lingchu Information Consulting, Shanghai LanJing Exhibition Service, Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai Yihong Cultural Communication, Sichuan Expo Economics Development, Hunan Hongxing International Exhibition, and Liso Group Holdings.

The three-day summit offered high-level thought leadership panel discussions by global industry experts on hot industry topics such as recovery and growth in Asia and beyond, the impact of China’s reopening, India market entrance strategies and growth opportunities, and sustainability development in the exhibition industry.

Matthew Butler, chair, AEO, said: “We are delighted to see the Asia CEO summit return to Singapore for its second iteration. Conceived prior to the pandemic, the timing is perfect as we see such interest and activity across the region. Connecting leaders from across the world to explore opportunities and hear the latest trends, continues to be fundamental for the event which we see in action over the next few days.”

Richard Ireland, President, SACEOS, said: “More than ever, global businesses are looking to capture the exciting growth opportunities in the region. Situated at the confluence of the world’s most populous nations, Singapore is well-positioned as the gateway to a fast-growing market in Southeast Asia. The strong lineup and success of business events in Singapore is testament to long-standing position as the choice destination for businesses to grow their presence in the region. And the Asia CEO Summit reflects the confidence and commitment of global event organisers in bringing more business events to the region.”