CONFERENCE-ORGANISER associations have given their backing to the inaugural IBTM Asia-Pacific in Hong Kong.
IBTM World organiser RX has also confirmed AsiaWorld-Expo as the venue for the March 19-20, 2025 event. RX expects 250 pre-qualified buyers and 1,500 visitors from across the region to attend the event.
The international and regional chapters of ICCA Asia Pacific, MPI and IAPCO have agreed partnerships with IBTM Asia Pacific. The associations have members worldwide, provide conference content for business event trade shows and advocate for the meetings industry among other activities.
More… IBTM says Hello, Hong Kong
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to sustainability, legacy and DE&I (diversity, equity and Inclusion), making the Asia Pacific region a compelling choice for international association events and business innovation,” said Waikin Wong, regional director for the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
RX originally pencilled in Singapore as the destination for its inaugural Asia Pacific show but the event underwent delays with the onset of Covid restrictions. Singapore already hosts major business event and travel-trade shows including The Meetings Show Asia Pacific and ITB Asia.
More… Aviation events gaining altitude in HK
The announcement of Hong Kong as the host city followed the gradual lifting of pandemic restrictions with authorities pushing for more international events.
RXs announcement pointed to the growth of the Asia Pacific MICE market as one of the reasons for holding the show in Hong Kong. It pointed to a report by Allied Market Research which puts the region’s MICE industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) at 8.6 per cent to reach US441.1 billion by 2025.
The growth of the industry is underpinned by investment in infrastructure and new airline routes, making the region more accessible. Given this growth, IBTM Asia Pacific is poised to provide a leading platform that will service the interests of the events community.
– IBTM Asia Pacific
Martin Boyle, chief executive at the International Association of Professional Conference Organisers (IAPCO), said: The Asia Pacific region is pivotal for the events industry due to its rapidly growing economies, diverse cultural landscapes and world-class venues. It serves as a strategic gateway connecting East and West, offering unparalleled opportunities for business and networking.”
Claudia Hall, event director for IBTM World and IBTM Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to have the support of our confirmed association partners. Working with them is paramount to our strategy to curate an experiential event programme which will provide their membership and attendees with inspiration, insights and exclusive networking opportunities.”
RX said IBTM Asia Pacific event will be supported by IBTM’s matchmaking technology and Hosted Buyer Programme. Personalised appointment diaries area created to ensure buyers and exhibitors make only the relevant connections with suppliers.
