Singapore’s tourism scene has shifted dramatically since 2019. According to a new report from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, with input from the Singapore Tourism Board, total tourism receipts in 2024 have already surpassed pre-pandemic levels—even though visitor numbers haven’t fully recovered. Tourists are spending less on shopping and hotels, but more on dining, entertainment, sightseeing, and gaming.

What’s driving this move from shopping to experiences? And how will it shape Singapore’s strategy to attract higher-spending visitors and boost tourism receipts by 2040?

On The Big Story, Alexandra Parada speaks with Aidan Wong, Assistant Professor of Urban Studies at SMU, to unpack these trends.

Singapore&rsquo;s tourism scene has shifted dramatically since 2019. According to a new report from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, with input from the Singapore Tourism Board, total tourism receipts in 2024 have already surpassed pre-pandemic levels&mdash;even though visitor numbers haven&rsquo;t fully recovered.&nbsp;Tourists are spending less on shopping and hotels, but more on dining, entertainment, sightseeing, and gaming.
What&rsquo;s driving this move from shopping to experiences? And how will it shape Singapore&rsquo;s strategy to attract higher-spending visitors and boost tourism receipts by 2040?
On The Big Story, Alexandra Parada speaks with Aidan Wong, Assistant Professor of Urban Studies at SMU, to unpack these trends.

Your evening guide to the day's most important topics — navigate the key events in politics, business, markets, wealth management, and top investment opportunities. Keeps you informed and ahead of the curve, daily.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.