The Big Story: Why tourists are spending less on shopping and more on experiences

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.