20-2-2024 (SINGAPORE) The upcoming Taylor Swift concerts in Singapore have received backing from the authorities, with a joint statement from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) affirming the likely economic benefits for sectors such as hospitality, retail, travel, and dining.
The statement mentioned that more than 300,000 tickets have already been sold for the concerts, with a substantial number of fans expected to travel from other countries. The Singapore Tourism Board and the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth emphasized that large-scale international events, like Taylor Swift’s concerts, contribute positively to the economy, leveraging Singapore’s strategic location, quality infrastructure, safety, efficiency, and diverse cultural offerings.
The Kallang Alive Sport Management (KASM), responsible for bringing diverse lifestyle and entertainment offerings to the Sports Hub, is actively involved in ensuring the success of such events.
The joint statement follows Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s remarks at the iBusiness Forum 2024 in Bangkok, claiming that the Singapore Government offered subsidies of up to US$3 million for each concert as part of an exclusive deal for Swift not to perform elsewhere in Southeast Asia during the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift, who recently won her fourth Grammy Award for Album of the Year, is set to perform six shows at the National Stadium from March 2 to March 9. Singapore is her only stop in Asia outside of Japan.
The joint statement acknowledged the significant demand from Singaporeans and regional fans for Swift’s performance in Singapore. It revealed that the MCCY and KASM worked directly with AEG Presents for Swift to perform in Singapore, with STB supporting the event through a grant.
While exclusive arrangements for concerts are not uncommon, the Singapore-Swift deal is a unique instance of a country securing an exclusive deal. The government’s support, both financially and through regulatory approvals, highlights the importance of major events in boosting tourism and contributing to the economy.
The concerts are anticipated to offer a boost to various sectors, contributing to the overall vibrancy of Singapore’s cultural and entertainment scene.
