5 key trends shaping the business travel power shift in Asia in 2025 in beyond

Here are the main trends reshaping business travel in Asia:

1. Increasing business travel demand across Asia

After years of restrictions, Asia is seeing a surge in business travel. Countries like China, Singapore, and Japan are leading this growth. The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) reports that 59% of travel managers expect a rise in business travel in 2024. In Asia, this growth is even more evident as companies return to face-to-face meetings for deal-making and relationship-building.

Business culture in Asia values in-person meetings, which remain essential for partnerships and market expansion. As companies invest in growth, business travel plays a key role, especially in sectors like technology and finance.

2. Rising travel costs in major Asian cities

While airfare prices have dropped slightly in 2024 compared to last year, the overall cost of business travel in Asia is still rising. Cities like Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore have seen steady increases in lodging, dining, and transportation expenses. Data from SAP Concur shows that airfare costs were still 10% higher in 2023 than before the pandemic.

With rising costs, 67% of travel managers in Asia expect an increase in their company’s travel budget this year. Business hubs like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur are also seeing more demand, pushing prices higher. Managing these costs while maintaining necessary travel will be a key challenge for companies.

3. Embracing alternatives: flexible travel options

Business travelers in Asia are increasingly booking through online platforms and directly with airlines or hotels. New Distribution Capability (NDC) has led to more fragmented booking channels. SAP Concur’s Global Business Travel Survey found that 38% of travel managers see this as a challenge.

Travelers in Asia, especially in tech-savvy markets like South Korea and Singapore, prefer more flexibility when booking and managing their trips. Almost half of global business travelers use online platforms, and 46% book directly through suppliers. This trend is growing in Asia as travelers seek convenience and autonomy.

4. Adapting travel policies for a New Era

With more travelers using alternative booking channels, many companies in Asia are adjusting their travel policies. In 2024, 38% of travel managers expect their policies to adapt to allow more flexible travel arrangements.

This is especially important in fast-growing economies like India and Vietnam, where a mobile-savvy workforce needs more agile policies. Companies are also using technology to track spending and ensure safety, even when bookings are made outside traditional channels.

5. Sustainability in business travel

Sustainability is becoming a major factor in business travel decisions across Asia. Companies are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and many travelers are prioritizing eco-friendly options. In Japan, for example, green energy and sustainable travel initiatives are gaining momentum.

Sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also help companies save on costs. As eco-friendly options become more available, businesses in Asia are adopting these measures to meet growing environmental expectations.

Conclusion: navigating business travel in Asia

As business travel picks up in Asia, companies must adapt to new trends. Rising costs, changing booking habits, and a focus on sustainability are reshaping the industry. By leveraging technology and adjusting policies, companies and TMCs can optimize travel while driving growth.