Vinexpo Asia returns to Singapore in 2025 with expanded focus on innovation and regional market growth

Vinexpo Asia is preparing for its second edition in Singapore, set to take place from May 27 to 29, 2025, at the Marina Bay Sands. The event marks a significant shift in the global wine and spirits industry, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities that have emerged since the pandemic. In 2022, Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium, announced that Vinexpo Asia would move from its long-standing home in Hong Kong to Singapore. This decision was influenced by ongoing travel restrictions in Hong Kong at the time, but also by a strategic focus on Southeast Asia’s growing importance in the drinks market.

The inaugural Singapore show in 2023 confirmed the city’s suitability as a host. Lameyse, who has extensive experience managing exhibitions in Singapore, highlighted the city’s strengths as a business hub. Its secure environment, major freight harbor, and well-connected airport make it an ideal location for international trade events. Singapore’s role as a center for premium and super-premium beverage merchants is also notable, with 47 Michelin-starred restaurants underscoring its influence in the on-trade sector.

The global drinks industry faces ongoing uncertainty due to economic instability, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. Lameyse points out that Southeast Asia stands out as a region of relative stability and opportunity. Market research from IWSR projects a 1.5% increase in beverage alcohol consumption across Asia Pacific this year, with Vietnam and the Philippines identified as particularly promising markets for growth.

Vinexpo Asia aims to create an environment where industry professionals can connect and explore new business opportunities. The event’s program is designed to reflect both global expertise and local market trends. Drawing on experience from Vinexposium’s flagship Wine Paris show, which attracted over 52,000 visitors this year, Vinexpo Asia offers a comprehensive schedule of activities tailored to the region.

The Vinexpo Academy will return with a series of masterclasses led by industry leaders and experts. In 2023, topics included consumer trends in South Korea, Hong Kong’s position as a fine wine hub, and developments in Irish whiskey. For 2025, organizers have planned 36 masterclasses over three days, along with conferences, roundtables, and dedicated tasting areas.

New features for the upcoming edition include the debut of Welcome to the Organic World (WOW!) in Singapore. This area will showcase organic and biodynamic beverages—a sector gaining traction among younger consumers in Southeast Asia who are increasingly interested in sustainability. Wines Unearthed will also make its first appearance in Singapore, providing a platform for producers seeking distribution partners. There will be an expanded focus on no- and low-alcohol options as well.

The exhibition will feature 1,100 exhibitors from more than 20 countries. France, Italy, and Australia will lead the roster of participating nations, joined by Spain, New Zealand, South Africa, Mexico, and the United Kingdom among others. Organizers expect around 11,000 professional visitors from over 70 countries.

Lameyse emphasizes that Vinexpo Asia is more than just a trade show; it is intended as a forum for addressing key issues facing the industry and fostering collaboration across borders. He believes that face-to-face meetings remain essential for building relationships and conducting tastings—an aspect that has regained importance after years of virtual events during the pandemic.

As preparations continue over the next two months, Lameyse remains focused on ensuring that participants leave with valuable business connections and insights into emerging market opportunities. The event’s commitment to productivity and relevance reflects broader efforts within the industry to adapt to changing conditions while seeking new avenues for growth.

Vinexpo Asia’s return to Singapore signals confidence in both the city’s infrastructure and Southeast Asia’s potential as a dynamic market for wine and spirits. With a packed program and diverse international participation, organizers aim to provide a platform that supports innovation and business development amid ongoing global uncertainty.