Monday 13 May: Conference Programme

Welcome from moderators

Opening address from TFWA President

In his opening address, TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen shared insights on the industry's current state and path forwards during times of change.

Welcome remarks from APTRA President

Sunil Tuli, the President of the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association, delivered an update on the association's critical projects and advocacy initiatives across the region.

Welcome remarks from the Minister of State FOR TRADE & INDUSTRY, AND CULTURE, COMMUNITY & YOUTH, republic of Singapore

The Lion City is a crucial gateway to trade and commerce in Asia Pacific.  TFWA was delighted to receive a welcome address from Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of  State, Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), Republic of Singapore.

Asia Pacific:  Takes Off 

Asia Pacific plays a crucial role in shaping the global economy. Driven by resilient domestic demand and strong consumer spending from East Asia to India, the region is projected to experience strong economic growth in 2024. Thanks to its rising middle class and technological advancements, the vast continent presents numerous profitable opportunities for businesses. 

Even as business and trade continues to expand, in the background society is experiencing the weight of inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions among major powers, resulting in supply chain bottlenecks in various sectors. Elections will also be held across the continent, directly impacting democracy as well as, potentially, the free movement of goods and people; factors on which the duty free and travel retail industry depends. 

To analyse this context and provide pointers on mitigating risks, the opening session welcomed author and economist Keyu Jin and heard her perspectives on the region’s economic outlook and navigating the macroeconomic challenges.

All Eyes on India

With a population of 1.4 billion people, India is one of the largest consumer markets in the world. India’s positive economic trajectory has paved the way to a burgeoning middle class with disposable income and desire to travel. Today, India is also home to Asia’s biggest airport development and expansion projects. More than ever, the time is ripe to explore the opportunities in detail and determine how to tap into this vibrant market. To help you make informed decisions, this session heard from author, business, and marketing expert Nirmalya Kumar.

Tech Innovation: What’s Next? 

Society has witnessed technological advancements that are gradually making everyday lives easier, more convenient, and – well, more interesting. The rapid progress in artificial intelligence is opening new opportunities and challenges for businesses and individuals alike; set to revolutionize the world as we know it. Artificial intelligence is the magic of the moment, but this session was a story about what's next. 

In the ever-evolving tech advancement, it is imperative to recognize and address the multifaceted challenges and benefits that arise from today’s innovations. To predict trends affecting businesses and the global travel and retail industry, the closing session of this year’s Asia Pacific Conference featured best-selling author, physicists and professor, Dr Michio Kaku.