As Asia-Pacific cements its status as a global hub for trade and innovation, new business travel trends are reshaping corporate mobility, according to a new study by BCD Travel.

The corporate travel management company‘s newly released Cities & Trends 2025 Asia Pacific Report unveils the top destinations, travel habits, and strategic shifts driving this dynamic market—offering a roadmap for companies navigating the evolving landscape in 2025.

Top Destinations Reflect Regional Powerhouses

The report crowns Singapore, Tokyo, and Hong Kong as the leading cities for Asia-Pacific business travellers, underscoring their enduring appeal as economic and logistical linchpins.

Singapore retains its throne, with a 20% surge in business visitors fueled by expanded flight capacity and a pro-business ecosystem that continues to draw corporations worldwide.

Tokyo follows with a remarkable 38% leap, vaulting it to the region’s second-most visited city—a testament to Japan’s resurgent role in tech, manufacturing, and finance, while Hong Kong rounds out the trio, its financial prowess and strategic location keeping it a perennial favourite.

Beyond the region, intercontinental travel sees Frankfurt, London, and San Francisco topping the list for Asia-Pacific business travellers, reflecting strong transcontinental ties with Europe and North America, especially thanks to air connectivity. Notably, Bengaluru emerges as a breakout star, with three of the top 10 long-haul routes originating from this Indian tech hub—an indicator of its growing clout in the global innovation economy.

A Surge in Spending and Sustainability

Business travel in Asia-Pacific is not just growing—it’s thriving. According to the report, 78% of travel buyers noted increased travel volumes in 2024, a trend that’s carrying momentum into 2025. This uptick aligns with a broader shift in how companies prioritize mobility, balancing cost, convenience, and sustainability.

One striking development is the rise of high-speed rail as a preferred mode of transport, particularly in China and Japan. With sustainability climbing corporate agendas, rail travel’s efficiency and lower carbon footprint are winning over business travellers. In China, expansive rail networks are outpacing air travel for distances up to 1,200 kilometres, while Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains continue to set the standard for speed and reliability. This shift signals a broader move toward greener travel policies across the region.

Premium Travel Takes Flight

Comfort is also on the rise. The report reveals that nearly half (45%) of intercontinental travellers from Asia-Pacific now opt for business class, up from previous years. This pivot toward premium cabins reflects evolving corporate preferences, with companies willing to invest in employee well-being for long-haul journeys—particularly on flights exceeding seven hours, where travel policies increasingly permit upgraded seating.

Strategic Insights for 2025

BCD’s findings highlight a region in flux, where direct flight availability, sustainable options, and shifting priorities are redefining business travel. Singapore’s dominance owes much to its connectivity—Changi Airport’s (below) robust recovery and new routes make it a seamless gateway. Tokyo’s ascent mirrors Japan’s economic rebound and hosting of major industry events, while Bengaluru’s rise underscores India’s tech-driven ascent on the global stage.

For travel managers, the report offers actionable foresight. “Business travel in Asia-Pacific is a barometer of economic vitality,” says a BCD spokesperson. “These trends—from rail adoption to premium bookings—equip companies to optimize their strategies in a region that’s only growing in influence.”

As 2025 unfolds, Asia-Pacific’s business travel landscape promises to be a blend of tradition and transformation—where bustling cities, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a commitment to sustainability pave the way for the modern corporate explorer. Whether it’s a boardroom in Tokyo or a tech summit in Bengaluru, the journey itself is becoming as strategic as the destination.

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