SINGAPORE. The TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference 2026 introduces a more dynamic format, placing greater emphasis on immersive experiences, content-led engagement and cross-industry dialogue. The updated approach reflects the changing needs of the channel, with a focus on innovation, discovery and meaningful partnerships.
A wide range of Asia Pacific airport operators have already pre-registered. These include Airport Authority Hong Kong, Changi Airport Group, Incheon International Airport, Sydney Airport Corporation, Japan Airport Terminal Co., Kansai Airports and GMR Airports.
Leading global travel retailers have also confirmed in strong numbers, including China Duty Free Group, Avolta, Lagardère Travel Retail, Gebr. Heinemann, King Power Group, The Shilla Duty Free, Lotte Duty Free, EVERRICH Duty Free, Hyundai Duty Free, 3Sixty Duty Free, WHSmith and Shinsegae Duty Free.
The event is supported by a strong network of partners, with Changi Airport Group serving as Official Host, alongside the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau and the City of Singapore.
Key sponsors include China Duty Free Group (Diamond), Avolta (Platinum) and brands such as Lindt, Mondelez World Travel Retail and Skross.
TFWA President Sarah Branquinho commented: “It’s always a pleasure to bring the industry together in Singapore, and in the context of current geopolitical tensions which are impacting our industry, this year’s edition provides a welcome half-year meeting point for us all. It also marks an important step in the evolution of TFWA Asia Pacific.
“In 2026, we will begin to introduce new concepts and a segmentation of categories across the exhibition floors, designed to enhance navigation, discovery and engagement.”
She added: “While some of these initiatives will be presented in a preview form, they reflect a broader vision that will continue to expand in 2027. Beyond the business opportunities, TFWA Asia Pacific remains a key moment for the community to reconnect, exchange ideas and look ahead together. With new spaces and an enriched programme, we aim to foster meaningful conversations and collaborations that will help shape the future of travel retail.”
World of Innovation
A central feature of the 2026 edition is the World of Innovation. The dedicated zone will bring together technology, retail concepts and product launches. At its core is the Agora, an amphitheatre-style space hosting workshops, presentations and pitch sessions.
Confirmed participants include The.Calling, CXG and start-ups supported by the Singapore Tourism Board and Gharage, such as Cube.Asia and File.ai.
The Agora Programme in partnership with the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)
Agora will feature a series of engaging sessions across the week.
Monday 11th May
- 3 – 3.30 pm: TFWA C-Suite: The Innovator’s Agenda – In Conversation with L’Oréal
- 4 – 5 pm: Mondelez Product Reveal
Tuesday 12th May
- 9 – 9.30 am: TFWA C-Suite: The Innovators’ Agenda – In conversation with Lagardère Travel Retail
- 10 – 11 am: AP Travel Retail Pulse: A Health Check and the Innovation Imperative
- 11.15 am – 12.15 pm: World of Innovation Pitch session
- 2 – 2.45 pm: The TFWA Dailies Deep Dive
- 3 – 3.43 pm: TFWA C-Suite: The Innovators’ Agenda – In Conversation with GHARAGE
Wednesday 13th May
- 10 – 11 am: TFWA Workshop: Market Watch China
- 11.15 am – 12.15 pm: World of Innovation Pitch session
- 2 – 2.45 pm: The TFWA Dailies Deep Dive
- 3 – 4 pm: TFWA Workshop: Market Watch India
- 4.15 – 5.15 pm: Launchpad pitch session
Thursday 14th May
- 10 – 10.45 am: TFWA C-Suite: The Innovators’ Agenda – In Conversation with an airport leader
- 11 am – 12 pm: Launchpad pitch session
A week of networking
The TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge will once again serve as a central meeting point for networking. The lounge is sponsored by Qatar Duty Free as Main Partner and supported by leading beverage brands including Heineken, Moutai, Liviko, Herita Wines, Masi Agricola and Siberian Express Vodka by Solex Group.
Monday 11th & Tuesday 12th May: Evening gatherings at the TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge within Taste of the World, featuring live culinary experiences.
Wednesday 13th May: Closing event at Alkaff Mansion
Taste of the World
New for 2026, Taste of the World introduces a more immersive, content-led approach to food and beverage within the exhibition environment. Designed as a flexible space, it will feature a Kitchen Theatre, signature bar concept and integrated lounge experience, alongside masterclasses and curated discussions.
The concept marks a shift away from a traditional exhibitor model to encourage discovery and informal networking. The 2026 edition will prioritise thought leadership and live experiences, with plans to evolve towards a more structured exhibitor format in 2027.
Highlights include a live cooking session from Chef Akira Back and demonstrations from pastry chef Janice Wong.
Monday 11th May
- 1 pm: Inaugural session featuring a live cooking show by chef Akira Back.
- 5.30 pm: Taste of the World, An Airport Gathering hosted by TFWA, bringing together stakeholders from across airport F&B and travel retail.
- 6 – 8 pm: TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge, featuring live demonstrations by renowned chefs, including the popular chef, Janice Wong.
Tuesday 12th May
- 6 – 8 pm: TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge including live demonstrations of chefs.
Launchpads champion emerging brands
The Launchpads initiative will return with an expanded focus on emerging and niche perfume and cosmetics brands, offering direct access to key decision-makers.
Participating brands include Pana Dora, Orlov Paris and Semi di Lino. In addition, Korean beauty specialist Kreyon will present six dedicated spaces showcasing next-generation brands.
With its expanded programme and renewed focus on experience, innovation and collaboration, the 2026 edition signals a continued evolution of the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference as a key driver of growth and connection across the global travel retail industry. ✈
