The inaugural Asia-Pacific edition of IBTM will now take place in Hong Kong in spring 2025, following a failed 2020 take-off in Singapore due to the pandemic.
The event is expected to attract more than 1,500 travel trade and business events professionals from Asia-Pacific and beyond, and provide a global business platform for industry players in Hong Kong and China.
Pang Yiu-kai, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) chairman, said in a press statement: “IBTM’s decision to host its inaugural flagship trade show for the Asia-Pacific region in Hong Kong is a strong testament to Hong Kong’s international standing and its unique role as a super-connector of the Greater Bay Area (GBA) by the global MICE industry.
“The event will not only bring more than 1,500 high-yield visitors from the global travel trade and MICE industry to Hong Kong but will also generate positive word-of-mouth with their personal experience. This, in turn, will help bring more MICE events to Hong Kong, creating multiplier effect contributing to the city’s economy.”
Vasyl Zhygalo, IBTM portfolio director, recognises Hong Kong’s “competitive edges, such as its diverse choice of venues, convenient transport facilities, and the provision of comprehensive professional support”.
He added: “Geographically, it is well positioned as a gateway between the world and the Mainland, especially cities in the GBA, which makes the city the ideal host of IBTM Asia Pacific. I am confident that this exhibition will help MICE trade members in different markets establish contacts with each other and explore opportunities in the region.”
To bring the Asia-Pacific flagship to Hong Kong, the HKTB teamed up with the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Hotels Association, Hong Kong Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, and AsiaWorld-Expo to highlight Hong Kong’s latest tourism updates and growth momentum, showcasing the city’s unique edges with the strong support of China, while being closely connected to the world, as well as the city’s potential in developing multi-destination tourism in GBA.
