DEMAND for business events in Southeast Asia is at its strongest with multinationals targeting growth in the region as conferences and exhibitions return following the pandemic, delegates at the Asia CEO Summit in Singapore heard.
Top executives from some of the world’s leading business event companies attending the three-day summit in Singapore this week discussed best ways forward in investing and bringing high-quality conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions to meet the demand of Asian businesses.
Singapore was ideally positioned to as the gateway to the Southeast Asia market, said Richard Ireland, president of Saceos, Singapore’s business-event organiser and supplier association.
“The demand for business events in Southeast Asia is stronger than it has ever been as large-scale international events like conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows continue to make a resounding comeback,” Ireland 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
– Richard Ireland, Saceos president
“The strong line-up and success of business events in Singapore is testament to longstanding 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.”
Topics covered at the summit ranged from recovery and growth in Asia and the impact of China’s reopening to strategies for entering the India market and sustainable development in the exhibitions industry.
Among the global event companies represented at the three-day Asia CEO Summit at JW Marriott Singapore South Beach were Informa Markets, RX, Clarion Events, Comexposium, and Messe Düsseldorf.
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The summit was co-organised by the Association of Event Organisers, Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (Saceos), the Society for Independent Show Organisers and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.
UFI president Michael Duck said: “When it matters, people meet. This is true for every industry the events sector serves with trade shows and conferences. The Asia CEO Summit is an excellent opportunity for the leaders of our own industry to come together – from across Asia and beyond. UFI is pleased to be a partner in putting this important event together.”
Main picture: A panel discussion at the Asia CEO Summit in 2022 – the first year the event was held
