In a major step to enhance regional cooperation in the business events industry, the Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB) and JETRO Singapore have signed a three-year Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) aimed at accelerating the growth of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) between Singapore and Japan.
This strategic partnership reinforces Singapore’s global reputation as the World’s Best MICE City, while strengthening bilateral trade ties and positioning both nations as MICE powerhouses in the Asia-Pacific region.
Strengthening MICE Synergies Between Singapore and Japan
The signing ceremony took place at The Dream Sphere, Singapore’s Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan — a symbol of Singapore’s innovation and multicultural dynamism. The location served as a fitting backdrop for advancing economic and cultural ties through business events.
The MoC is expected to:
- Enhance collaboration between SECB and JETRO Singapore to co-create high-impact MICE events.
- Bridge Japanese industry leaders with Singapore’s advanced MICE infrastructure.
- Promote cross-border networking and collaboration in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, fintech, sustainability, life sciences, and technology.
Capitalizing on Asia-Pacific MICE Market Growth:
The global MICE industry is projected to grow at a 7.2% CAGR from 2024 to 2032, with the Asia-Pacific region leading this expansion due to economic resilience, increased business travel, and improved infrastructure.
Singapore is poised to capitalize on this momentum, leveraging its:
- Strategic location and regional connectivity
- Trusted regulatory environment
- World-class venues and transport systems
- Focus on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability
This MoC also aligns with Singapore’s ambition to attract next-generation conferences and exhibitions in emerging and high-growth industries.
Elevating Industry Standards Through Innovation and Collaboration:
The agreement includes knowledge-sharing initiatives to elevate MICE standards across the region. Areas of focus include:
- Sustainability practices in event planning and execution
- Digital transformation and productivity tools for MICE organizers
- Joint marketing campaigns targeting shared growth sectors
Through this partnership, both Singapore and Japan aim to unlock new MICE opportunities, expand international outreach, and drive economic collaboration beyond their borders.