Event planners across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are gearing up for a significant increase in meetings in 2026, with 52% anticipating a rise in the number of events, according to a survey by Cvent and Northstar Meetings Group. This comes as The Meetings Show Asia Pacific prepares for its third edition on 14-15 April 2026 in Singapore.
Despite the expected increase in meetings, only 28% of planners foresee a rise in attendee numbers, a drop from 45% last year. Alexander John, Regional Director - Business Development at MCI Middle East, attributes this growth to a "measurable shift in economic momentum and demand" within APAC, highlighting the region's ability to generate growth internally due to its large population and GDP.
The survey, which included 167 planners, also revealed that APAC planners are more optimistic than their counterparts in EMEA and North America, with 70% expressing increased optimism compared to 44% and 32% respectively. Nelson Khoo, Events Director at Northstar Travel Group, noted the strong demand for meetings in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, projecting an annual meeting spend of over $250 million.
The Meetings Show Asia Pacific, launched in 2024, has become a pivotal event for the region's MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, offering networking and business growth opportunities. The event will take place at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, and is free for professionals, with registration currently open.
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