Press Room

The summit will be held at the Exhibition World Bahrain from September 1 to 2 bringing together regional and international stakeholders from meetings and events industry.

Among others, it will feature a forum focused on panel discussions, case studies, workshops and structured networking targeted at critical topics shaping the global MICE landscape.

The summit will also introduce the ICCA Middle East Recognition Awards, aimed at acknowledging institutional excellence and innovation within the region’s business events sector.

While the key theme is on technology and during the summit, participants will learn about how technology can strengthen the tourism and meetings industry and in creating, seamless experiences for travellers.

“We are looking forward to leading the charge in innovation and high-tech developments, particularly in how artificial intelligence is transforming destination marketing and the way cities position themselves globally,” said Dr. Senthil Gopinath, chief executive officer of ICCA.

There will also be discussions on sustainability with Bahrain’s effort in committing to sustainable tourism.  Conversations at the summit on sustainability will be centred on eco-friendly practices, green certifications and carbon neutral initiatives.

What participants can take away from the summit this year will be, strong networking opportunities, connect with industry professionals as well as, suppliers of tourism and MICE products, country tourism boards and destination and venue owners.

Back row: Oliver Chong, Assistant Chief Executive (Designate), International Group, STB; Melissa Ow, Chief Executive, STB; Alex Hungate, President and Group COO, Grab; Alejandro Osorio, Singapore Managing Director, Grab; Front row: Juliana Kua, Assistant Chief Executive, International Group, STB; Yee Wee Tang, Group Managing Director of Operations, Grab, at the MOU signing ceremony.

Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, both organisations aim to attract more international visitors and drive tourism spend, while delivering seamless and authentic travel experiences in the city.

As part of the collaboration, STB will act as the gateway connecting Grab with tourism partners across Singapore for closer collaboration.

According to STB, the insights gained from these partners, combined with Grab’s demand generation tools and marketing capabilities, will help drive greater footfall and tourism spending throughout the island thus, benefiting a wide array of local businesses and experiences.

One key initiative will be the enhancement of the Grab Travel Pass, a convenient bundle offering discounts on Grab transport and services in-country.

Available to all international travellers visiting Singapore, the Travel Pass simplifies travel planning and improves on-ground mobility, delivering greater value to travellers while driving growth for tourism partners.

Leveraging on Singapore’s strength as a hub for global and regional events, the partnership will also see Grab collaborating with STB and event organisers to elevate the overall event experience through its mobility, food and financial services which are widely used by both leisure and business travellers.

In the first six months of this year, Singapore recorded 8.33 million international visitor arrivals with SGD8.07 billion in tourism spend in the first quarter of 2025.

In collaboration with two leading data authorities, Tourism Economics and Trip.com Group, ITB China has officially released its travel and trends report for 2025 to 2026. The report examines structural shifts and evolving trends across three core areas of the China travel ecosystem covering outbound travel, meetings, incentives and events and inbound travel to China. While findings of the report are drawn from insights of survey conducted among 1,400 members ITB China Buyer Circle.

According to Messe Berlin China deputy general manager, Ms.  Lydia Li the annual trends report is aimed at providing actionable insights for global partners and industry professionals interested in the Chinese travel market.

She added the goal of the report, is to help them better understand Chinese travel demand and industry dynamics, identify opportunities, stay in step with market shifts, and make informed business decisions.

The survey of the report revealed a shift in China’s outbound travel demographics, according to data from Trip.com Group. Travellers born in the 1980s and 1990s represent 67 percent of the segment in 2024, a proportion of which is expected to grow.

A rise of ‘active seniors’ is reshaping the market, with more than 100 million expected to travel by the end of 2025 and drive spending beyond CNY One trillion (USD140 billion).

At the same time, the trend of companies going global has brought new opportunities to China’s MICE market with business and leisure travel becoming a growth engine.

A key finding was the strong growth potential in the bleisure segment that is business and leisure travel cited by 83 percent of respondents. This trend reflects a shift in corporate travel priorities with higher demand for integrated experience value for delegates, teams and clients than just meeting logistics.

Inbound tourism as claimed in the report is becoming a key growth driver for China.  As the sector, enters a new phase of expansion with tourism economic projects continued gains in China’s share of global inbound supported by visa easing, restored air capacity and improved readiness on city level.

The study also delved into the increasing role of AI in travel.  Over half of ITB China Buyer Circle members are now using AI tools for product recommendations, customer service applications and market analysis. The challenges according to the report is on maintaining human-centred service while adopting AI-driven efficiencies.

In the final analysis, the report recognises that preferences among travellers are also changing, with a move toward free independent travel, social media-driven planning and higher demand for authentic, experience-led tourism beyond the major landmarks.

Tourism New Zealand confirmed 64 international conference wins in the past year, worth an estimated NZ$78.8 million to New Zealand’s visitor economy.

The Tourism New Zealand Business Events team closed out its 2025 financial year hitting record bid targets enabled by a NZ$3 million government funding boost announced in March 2025. It exceeded its stretch target of 110 bids worth NZ$170 million, making 112 bids worth NZ$173 million. The national tourism organisation had previously set a target of 90 bids with a value of NZ$140 million for the 2025 financial year.

In addition to the bid numbers lodged in FY25 there were also 100 resulted bids (win/loss announcements), with 64 wins and 36 losses. The 64 wins have an estimated direct economic impact of NZ$78.8 million.

“What that economic impact figure doesn’t capture is the other benefits hosting these events deliver to New Zealand, from research collaborations to investment opportunities, job creation, profile for New Zealand universities, and knowledge sharing to find solutions to global challenges.” Said Tourism New Zealand global manager business events, Ms. Penelope Ryan

Wins secured in the last year include the WONCA World Rural Health Conference in 2026; Asia-Pacific Intelligent Transport Systems Forum 2027; World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026; and International Precision Dairy Farming Conference 2025.

“We continue to accelerate momentum thanks to the Government’s additional NZ$3 million in funding for the 2026 financial year,” Ms. Ryan stated. “We’re holding the 110-bid stretch target but aiming to increase the value to NZ$185 million in FY26. We have conference bids in process for 2026 and beyond, with wins confirmed as far ahead as 2030, highlighting the vital role business events activity plays in growing the New Zealand economy now and into the future.”

New Zealand has already secured nine conference wins in the first month of the new financial year. Conference pipelines continue to grow across New Zealand’s three new key city convention centres Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, and the New Zealand International Convention Centre, opening in Auckland in February 2026.

Ms. Penelope Ryan, Global Manager Business Events of Tourism New Zealand.

The Centre successfully secured six major international conferences through competitive bidding in the first half of the year and is set, to attract more than 6,150 delegates in 2026 and 2027 – generating an estimated RM77.5million (USD18.2million or Euro15.6million) in economic impact for Malaysia.

“Winning these bids is a resounding vote of confidence in Malaysia’s capacity, connectivity and collaborative spirit. Beyond the RM77 million in direct economic contribution, these events will spark new partnerships, accelerate talent development, and showcase our nation’s commitment to driving solutions for aviation safety, global health security, net-zero technology and women’s health,” said Mr. John Burke, general manager of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

These recent wins highlight the Centre’s ongoing commitment to fostering intellectual exchange, advancing professional development, and delivering economic value to the nation. The conferences span across the fields of aviation, global health security, evidence-based guidelines, clean-energy technology and women’s health.

While the regional and international conferences include Global Health Security Conference 2026, Energy Tech Summit Asia 2026 and 85th FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2027.

Returning to Bangkok, Thailand, from 23 to 25 September, IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2025 will see the show’s commitment to deliver powerful thought leadership, inclusive travel experience and with robust educational content. This year’s three-day event brings together MICE and corporate travel professionals for an extensive programme of conferences, networking activities, and hands-on workshops.

Day One begins with a re-energised emphasis on education and skill-building, supported by leading global associations such as the Global MICE Collaborative such AEE, MPI, SITE, ICCA, and GBTA. Delegates can pre-register for the MICE Fundamentals: Conferences, Exhibitions & Incentive Events certification course by the Global MICE Collaborative

ICCA will lead a sustainable gastronomy in MICE activity that explores the wonders of gastronomy through the lens of sustainability and innovation. Delegates will take part in interactive experiences that encourage knowledge sharing and promote responsible practices within the business events landscape.

Delegates are able to participate in a series of hands-on activities that encourage interaction, collaboration, and cultural appreciation, providing a refreshing break from traditional business meetings while facilitating networking in an informal setting.

While Global Business Travel Association and CTW Asia-Pacific bring thoughts and ideas for delegates to have a discussion on the topic of business travel and its future resilience, with a focus on sustainability, policy, and the traveller’s well-being.

Programme Highlights of this year’s IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific are conferences on key topics namely Express Mindful Moment – “Your Smiling Heart” is a 10-minute mindfulness session led by Dr. Buathon Thienarrom, using meditative sounds to promote self-awareness.

Speed-Dating Session a five-minute roundtable engagement for selected buyers and exhibitors to encourage quality networking and business lead generation.

Tastebud Lab Conference roundtable exploration of how food as a wellness driver, is reshaping the hospitality, health tourism, and MICE landscape. From personalised nutrition, future food systems, and sustainable culinary experiences, the session uncovers how destinations can innovate for competitive advantage.

For more information, log on to www.itcma.com | www.corporatetravelworld.com/apac

Registration for IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific is available at https://itcma.com/register/

The high-profile event is designed to cater to the evolving needs of China’s rapidly changing MICE industry, is supported by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism and will take place, on September 11 and 12 in Beijing. The convex-style event will be co-located with the ITB China Business Travel Conference.

MICE Meeting Point will feature a dynamic conference stage where leading experts and innovators can present cutting-edge insights, trends, and first-hand updates shaping the future of MICE and business travel.

The event will also host a dedicated business mart area, enabling sponsors to showcase their products, solutions, and services to a highly targeted audience at branded sponsor booths and tables.  While exclusive networking events will offer valuable opportunities to connect with key industry players and decision-makers, fostering meaningful business interactions.

“Beijing has always played a significant role in advancing the development of China’s MICE industry. As a supporting unit for this event, we are deeply honoured to host such an international MICE gathering in Beijing. We look forward to fostering innovation and growth in China’s MICE industry through this event and further deepening cooperation both domestically and internationally”, commented Sun Jian, deputy director, Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism.

According to the Global Business Travel Association, China ranked first with USD372.5 billion in business travel spending (a nine percent increase) among the top fifteen countries in 2023.

By 2028, it is projected to exceed USD2.0 trillion, highlighting a robust outlook for the global business travel sector in terms of the global business travel spending. According to Trip.Biz data, cross-border business travel is also surging, with figures as of October 2024 already 34 percent higher than in 2019 and a 72 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023, setting a new historical record. This growth highlights China’s expanding influence in the global business travel sector.

Beyond financial growth, the industry is also undergoing a structural transformation, shaped by advancements in artificial intelligence, sustainability initiatives, digitalisation, and hybrid meeting technologies. The demand for customised, tech-driven, and flexible MICE solutions is rising, with businesses prioritising efficiency, personalisation, and sustainability in their event planning strategies.

Over three days from October 15 to 17 at the Marina Bay Sands, ITB Asia 2025  will bring together leading destination experts, suppliers, top-tier buyers and influential thought leaders to explore the full spectrum of leisure, corporate travel, MICE and travel technology, and to shape the future of the industry across the Asia-Pacific region.

The exhibition floors of both, ITB Asia and MICE Show Asia feature an impressive roster of key industry players. Among companies and airlines, Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Disney Cruise Line, Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Resorts World Sentosa and Sentosa Development Corporation will be on hand to showcase their latest offerings. Leading hotel groups, including Banyan Group, Best Western Hotels and Resorts, Marina Bay Sands, Meliá Hotels International and Pan Pacific Hotels Group, will present their newest properties and loyalty programmes. Business Events Perth Convention Bureau will highlight Western Australia as a premier meetings and events destination.

A rich selection of national tourist boards will also be in attendance. Delegations from the Czech Tourism Board, Lithuania Travel, Malta Tourism Authority, Philippines Tourism Promotions Board, Singapore Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Tonga Tourism Authority, Tourism Association of Sarajevo Canton, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourism Seychelles, Visit Estonia, Visit Finland, Visit Iceland and Visit Norway will share insights into their latest marketing initiatives and travel incentives.

Regional tourist boards, including Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Department, Pattaya Variety, Penang Tourism Board, Phuket Tourist Association, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Seoul Tourism Board, Visit Almaty, Visit Rovaniemi and visitBerlin, will demonstrate how they are driving growth in their respective markets.

Meanwhile, Travel Tech Asia will host a world-class lineup of technology providers. Trip.com, Korea Tourism Startup Center, Juniper Travel Technology, Go Global Travel, Rakuten Travel Xchange, Wego, DerbySoft, RateHawk, Worldline, Flywire, RESTEL S.A., SiteMinder and SUNRATE will unveil innovations in booking platforms, payments and guest-experience management that are set to revolutionise the travel ecosystem.

The Buyer Elite Partner Programme continues to be a cornerstone of ITB Asia’s value proposition. In partnership with associations and agencies such as Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA), ASTINDO, BWH Hotels, Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA), Enterprising Travel Agent’s Association (ETAA), EVINTRA, IME Consulting, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA), Outbound and Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), United Travel Agencies and Operators Association (UTAOA), Vietnam Society of Travel Agents (VISTA) and Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), ITB Asia will deliver a hand-picked cadre of MICE, Leisure and Corporate buyers. Partners can recommend both existing clients and new prospects ensuring high-quality, pre-arranged meetings that translate into real business outcomes.

For more information, please visit https://www.itb-asia.com

An Interview with Mr. John Chan, General Manager of Shenyang New World EXPO

The newly appointed general manager of the Shenyang New World EXPO forwarded his viewpoints regarding the present situation of the convention and exhibition industry in China and challenges and future direction, as well as the distinctive strengths of the EXPO.

Shenyang, a strategic city in northeast Asia, is well-positioned to emerge as a major destination for international conventions and exhibitions, thanks to its advantageous geographical location, strong industrial foundation, and favourable policy environment.

Challenges and Future Direction of the Convention and Exhibition Industry

In recent years, the domestic economy has encountered numerous challenges, particularly due to a continuously sluggish real estate market that has caused funding shortages in related supply chains, reduced investment enthusiasm among businesses, and weakened consumer confidence, all of which have negatively impacted the overall economic environment.  Mr. Chan noted that as a result, many companies have reduced their exhibition plans due to budget cuts, with some even cancelling specific events.

Consequently, he added the industry’s growth has noticeably slowed. Many small and medium-sized convention and exhibition enterprises are struggling to survive in an increasingly competitive environment.

Given this situation, industry professionals need to collaborate and actively engage with government departments to offer insights and suggestions. On one hand, it is essential to explore innovative strategies to recapture the interest of exhibitors and attendees, thereby enhancing the appeal and influence of such events.

On the other hand, it is important to actively advocate for the government to implement supportive policies for the industry, such as tax reduction and exemption, fiscal subsidies, financial support, and other measures. These measures will help lower operating costs of relevant enterprises, alleviate financial pressure, and promote the market-oriented development within the industry.

At the same time, it is also necessary to strengthen self-discipline within the industry by standardising the organisation and operation of conventions and exhibitions and improving their quality and professionalism, so as to better position the industry to thrive in a more competitive and market-oriented environment.

Opportunities and Challenges for the Convention and Exhibition Industry in 2025

As China continues to expand its high-level opening-up to the outside world, the connections between China and the rest of the world are becoming increasingly stronger, leading to a rise in cross-border cooperation and exchanges.

Shenyang, a pivotal city in northeast China, is actively striving to establish itself as an international hub in northeast Asia. Mr. Chan noticed that local governments are increasingly recognising the importance of the convention and exhibition industry.

An increasing number of international brands, multinational enterprises, and professional organisations are seeking opportunities to participate in conventions, exhibitions, and activities in China fuelled, by the continuous improvement of China’s international influence. This will create significant market opportunities for the convention and exhibition industry.

Why is EXPO the Venue of Choice

The EXPO is one of the most state-of-the-art convention and exhibition centres in northeast China. Just a 20-minute drive from both the airport and the high-speed rail station. Its is located on the Golden Corridor adjacent to Shenyang commercial business district.

The EXPO has 24,000 square metres of gross exhibition space and 4,000 square metres of multi-functional convention, meeting and banquet space. While the surrounding area boasts various entertainment and shopping amenities with more than 20,000 high-quality guest rooms offered within a 10-kilometer radius. Guests of the EXPO benefit from the connecting Shenyang K11 Art Mall and New World Shenyang Hotel.

In terms of services, the EXPO is managed and operated by Shenyang New World EXPO (Management) Limited. SML is a subsidiary of the Hong Kong-listed CTF Services Limited with 30 years of professional experience in the management and operation of event and exhibition venues including the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Mr. Sood comes on board Messe Stuttgart India with 25 years’ experience in the trade fair industry. Leveraging on his extensive industry experience, he will lead Messe Stuttgart India’s strategic initiatives to support India’s growth in trade fair business through industry-specific events.

According to Messe Stuttgart India with Mr. Sood’s proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence is well-positioned to lead Messe Stuttgart India’s initiatives. His focus will be on advancing the company’s mission of supporting India’s evolving economy through strategic industry events that foster innovation and collaboration.

Messe Stuttgart India is a subsidiary of one of the world’s leading companies in the trade fair and exhibition industry, Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG. The parent company, Messe Stuttgart in Germany, has an impressive legacy that spans over 80 years, hosting more than 70 international fairs and congresses each year, attracting millions of visitors and exhibitors.

Meanwhile Messe Stuttgart India’s portfolio has expanded with the addition of DIDAC Skills of which the trade fair organiser has successfully organised several key events that includes DIDAC INDIA, LogiMAT India, MOLDEX India, and FASTNEX. Hence driving industry growth and reinforcing India’s vision to become a global trade fair hub.