2-3-2024 (SINGAPORE) Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Edwin Tong, dismissed reports suggesting that Singapore paid a substantial sum to secure exclusive shows for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Minister Tong stated that the figures circulating online were exaggerated and far from the actual amount. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had previously claimed that Singapore paid up to US$3 million for each of the six concerts. However, the total payment for all six shows is closer to US$2 million to US$3 million. The Singapore Tourism Board confirmed its support for the event through a grant but did not disclose the grant’s size or conditions. Minister Tong emphasized that concert promoters make their own calculations and consider various factors when deciding where to hold shows. He will address the issue further in parliament on Monday.
The minister stressed that the decision to bring Taylor Swift to Singapore was not solely based on a grant or deal but on the overall package. Experienced promoters carefully assess the suitability of a venue and the country’s overall appeal. The minister highlighted that Singapore cannot control certain factors, and promoters must evaluate whether the package in Singapore meets their expectations. Swift’s six sold-out shows in Singapore, her only stop in Asia apart from Japan, have attracted over 300,000 fans, including many who traveled from other countries to attend. Minister Tong requested that Swift’s shows be scheduled at the end of a tour segment to gauge demand, which resulted in the extension of the concert dates.
While fans in Southeast Asia expressed disappointment at Singapore being the only regional stop, Minister Tong emphasized that the decision was a commercial one. He stated that Singapore secured a deal that benefits the country, and neighboring countries could pursue similar agreements. The minister acknowledged that international acts like Taylor Swift play a role in maintaining Singapore’s attractiveness and acknowledged his own interest in Swift’s music, as he will be attending the concert with his daughters.
