Optimism is returning across Asia-Pacific economies with a steady rise in intra-regional and international corporate travel activity fuelling its growth
As more businesses expand in fast-growing markets such as Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines, and executives hop more frequently between major hubs like Singapore and Tokyo, demand is rising for international travel programmes that ensure consistent, high-quality ground transportation.
Our inhouse data reveals growth across the region, but what else does it tell us about the challenges posed by the pace of change?
TBR data reveals growth in APAC corporate ground transport
The numbers speak for themselves.
Figures from UN Tourism reveal demand for travel in APAC is growing more quickly than among international peers. While international overnight tourist arrivals increased by five per cent in 1Q2025, when compared to the same period last year, APAC saw a 13 per cent jump.
Our own operations are mirroring this uptick, with in-house data pointing to a strong rise in corporate travel demand with international travellers flocking to APAC. Bookings made by our US-based clients for journeys in APAC are up 53 per cent year-on-year to June, while those from EMEA have grown by 45 per cent.
At the same time, international travel from APAC to EMEA has jumped 66 per cent year-on-year, highlighting strong outbound demand across the region.
Interestingly, this year, lead times for APAC bookings are up 28 per cent. This is a clear sign that corporate travellers are booking with greater certainty and confidence in the growing market.
Market variations and challenges to be aware of across APAC
Travel sellers must, however, be aware of challenges across APAC as the market accelerates.
While the growth appetite exists, operational challenges remain. With its immense scale, spanning multiple time zones, languages, and cultural expectations, the challenges are unique.
Navigating this landscape requires flexibility and deep local expertise.
Operators must manage a complex web of licensing and safety standards that vary not only by country, but often by region or city. From Japan’s strict emissions policies to foreign ownership restrictions in Indonesia, these local regulations can significantly influence operational decisions and strategic planning.
Traveller expectations also differ widely. In markets like Singapore and South Korea, real-time tracking and cashless payments are standard, while others still rely on paper tickets and cash. Cost sensitivity varies, too, with some travellers prioritising value, while others are happy to pay a premium for seamless corporate journeys.
Ground transport providers must also navigate a patchwork of urban and rural networks, where legacy systems coexist alongside modern transit hubs. This adds layers of complexity to route planning, vehicle maintenance, and fleet deployment, demanding operational agility and local know-how to deliver consistent service across diverse environments.
Hiring the right international ground transport provider helps travel sellers confidently navigate APAC’s complexities, ensuring a reliable and tailored service that can handle the diverse needs of both the region and its travellers.
Craig Chambers is group CEO at TBR Global Chauffeuring, where he leads the company’s global strategy and oversees its continued growth.
His priorities include driving sustainable growth by strengthening TBR’s global presence and client relationships, upholding the highest standards in service, safety, and corporate responsibility, and empowering teams to deliver seamless, technology-driven solutions for high-stakes travel needs.
