BCD’s Cities & Trends Asia Pacific 2023 Edition reveals the most frequented destinations by APAC business travelers. The report is filled with valuable insights that can be used to manage travel programs more effectively. Pulled from our 2023 flight and rail data, the findings may be useful predictors of emerging business hubs, popular destinations, and up-and-coming markets in APAC. By analyzing these trends, travel program stakeholders can better manage air, hotel and car rental spend and identify cost-effective destinations.
APAC’s business travel hotspots
Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok are the most visited cities in APAC. Strong government support and a vibrant meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector factor strongly in Singapore’s draw as a business destination. Changi Airport’s recovery to 86% of its pre-pandemic passenger volume makes the city-state a prime destination for business. Singapore has maintained its position as the primary financial hub in the region ahead of Hong Kong and now ranks as Asia’s top financial center and the third globally, according to The Global Financial Centres Index 34 (GFCI 34). The index provides evaluations of future competitiveness and rankings for 121 financial centers around the world.
Frankfurt, London, and Amsterdam top the list of intercontinental destinations for APAC businesses travelers.
East meets West: A business traveler’s guide to Singapore
Top countries and routes
Singapore was the most visited APAC country last year, followed by China, Japan, Thailand and Hong Kong. The most frequent routes often start from Singapore and Hong Kong, highlighting the significance of these hubs. The recovery of international travel to and from China has lagged behind the rebound in the country’s domestic travel industry following the end of its zero-COVID policy. Domestic air travel is at 17% above 2019 levels, while international air travel is still recovering. Factors such as a shortage of flights, high ticket prices and administrative hurdles in obtaining visas have contributed to this slower recovery.
The United States is the most visited country globally, followed by Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands and France. This is not surprising considering that four American cities – San Francisco (No. 4), New York (No. 6), Los Angeles (No. 8) and Chicago (No. 10) – appear in the top 10 intercontinental cities list.
“According to GBTA’s 2023 Business Travel Index™, the APAC region is set to play a significant role in global business travel spending this year, accounting for 42% of the total,” said Greg O’Neil, president of Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa and Global Network at BCD. “BCD leverages its advanced technology and industry expertise to help travelers and companies navigate the complexities of business travel in APAC, one of the most diverse regions. We support our corporate clients by keeping them informed of developments, advising on supplier negotiations, managing risks, and providing travelers with tools they enjoy using, ensuring they can travel confidently and effectively.”
Rail travel: A sustainable choice
In China and Japan, rail travel is a favored mode for domestic business trips due to its efficiency and convenience. With sustainability firmly in focus, many companies are opting for high-speed rail over air travel for distances between 800 and 1,200 km. BCD Travel China’s Rail+ solution simplifies booking, payment, and expense reconciliation for frequent train travelers.
How to use this information
- Emerging business hubs: Identify up-and-coming markets and popular destinations in APAC.
- Cost management: Use the insights to manage air, hotel, and car rental spend more effectively.
- Travel trends: Understand the travel patterns to negotiate better deals with suppliers.
Get the APAC report
Get all the detailed insights and trends in the Cities & Trends 2023 Asia Pacific Report. Download the full report below.
