News to Know

Asia Pacific Business Travel to Surpass $700 Billion in 2026, Leading Global Growth Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

Business travel across Asia Pacific is on a strong upward trajectory, with the region projected to remain the largest global market in 2026—even as companies navigate ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and economic pressures. Business travel spending in the region is forecast to reach $700.9 billion USD in 2026, a year-over-year increase of 10.9%.

These were among regional findings unveiled at the GBTA APAC Conference 2026 held May 12-13 at the Marina Bay Sands and co-located with WERC APAC 26 for the 4th year, attracting over 1,100 registered attendees from 35 countries.

Amid APAC’s strong outlook there is still concern, however, among regional industry professionals. In GBTA’s April global survey, APAC optimism fell to 46%, down from 56% in January.

GBTA also unveiled economic impact data outlining that business travel to and within Singapore generates $8.1 billion in annual revenue, while 56% of every dollar spent on business travel stays local and adds to the area’s economy.

“Our APAC conference highlights both the momentum of this region and GBTA’s deepening commitment to supporting its growth,” said Elle Ng-Darmawan, Senior Director, APAC for GBTA. “As the region’s global influence continues to expand, we’re helping to strengthen connections, advance learning and ensure our members are equipped to navigate change and capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead in APAC.”

The event featured educational programming and expert perspectives from leading voices such as Dr. Taimur Baig, Chief Economist at DBS Bank, and Dr. Ayesha Khanna, CEO at Addo AI. Interactive experiences included Connect First for newcomers, “The Big Idea” session, and the APAC debut of GBTA VentureConnect to connect emerging travel tech startups with investors and buyers.

GBTA also recognized five 2026 APAC Volunteer Award recipients and announced the new Chair of the GBTA APAC Advisory Board.

Read the full conference recap announcement here.

Industry Spotlight

GBTA Advocacy
GBTA Welcomes EU Measures to Make Travel Easier to Book, Compare and Manage

Yesterday GBTA welcomed the publication of the European Commission’s new Passenger Package. The Passenger Package is an important step in the right direction, with the potential to make journeys across Europe easier to search, compare, book and manage for business travellers. 

The legislative proposals included in the Package are aimed at improving the availability of multimodal travel options and rail tickets, and at strengthening the rights of rail passengers across Europe. 

Over the past years, GBTA has engaged closely with the European Commission to advocate for rules that provide better access and guarantees to travellers for cross-border rail and multimodal trips.   

GBTA also welcomed the Commission’s focus on rail passenger rights, as consistent rules are needed so travellers understand their rights when disruption occurs.

Read GBTA’s full statement here.

GBTA LATAM Conference 2026
A Reimagined One-Day Experience for the Region's Corporate Travel Community

For more than 17 years, GBTA’s LATAM Conference has been the region's most established gathering for corporate travel buyers, suppliers, and industry leaders. In 2026, the event returns in a new, high-impact one-day format built around what matters most to LATAM's corporate travel market today: focused education, premium networking, and a curated expo featuring more than 40 solution providers. Lock in the Early Bird rate before May 27.

This event will be held in the local language.

GBTA Convention 2026
Showcase Your Property in the Independent Hotel Pavilion

The Independent Hotel Pavilion at GBTA Convention 2026 gives your property a dedicated home that highlights its distinctive character, local flavor, and lifestyle appeal, exactly what buyers are looking for when they want to add something different to their travel programs. A pavilion placement puts you in front of business travel professionals actively seeking properties like yours. Limited spots remain, and expo rates increase on June 5. Reserve your spot in Chicago, August 3–5, 2026.