Tourism receipts rise even as visitor numbers fall
Singapore is defying the simple math of tourism: fewer visitors are arriving, yet the city-state is recording higher tourism receipts than in 2019. A report from the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s Economics Division shows that spending per visitor has shifted away from shopping and toward dining and experience-based activities. The net effect is a stronger total tourism spend, even as the headline number of tourists has not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.
Where the money is going: dining and experiences
Analysts highlight a notable shift in consumer behavior among travelers. While shopping used to be a staple of Singapore’s tourism model, many visitors are now prioritizing meals at renowned restaurants, street food explorations, and immersive experiences that showcase the city’s cultural and culinary diversity. Entertainment districts, guided tours, museums, and nature-based activities are recording solid demand, contributing to a higher average spend per visitor.
Dining takes the lead
Food remains a primary draw for tourists. Singapore’s reputation as a global food hub translates into a robust dining spend, from hawker centers to rooftop Michelin-starred venues. For travelers, eating out is not just sustenance but a core part of the Singapore experience, reinforcing the city’s identity and hospitality credentials.
Experiences surpass expectations
Beyond meals, visitors seek curated experiences—private tours, wellness retreats, and cultural performances—that offer lasting memories. The shift toward experiential travel aligns with broader tourism trends, where guests value quality interactions, unique access, and crafted itineraries over mere shopping binges.
Shopper yield down,整体 receipts up
With fewer international arrivals, some categories of spending—particularly in retail—have softened. The reduction in shopping spend is offset by higher expenditures in food, entertainment, and experiences. The net effect is a total tourism receipt that exceeds 2019 levels, signaling a resilient tourism sector that has reoriented its revenue mix rather than merely recovering visitor volumes.
What this means for Singapore’s tourism strategy
Policy makers and industry players are taking note. The shift in spending patterns suggests opportunities to diversify tourism products, invest in culinary tourism, and expand capacity in high-demand experiential segments. Enhancing accessibility to premium dining, exclusive experiences, and culturally rich tours could sustain the more lucrative spending mix while continuing to rebuild visitor numbers.
Implications for local businesses and communities
Hospitality and service sectors may benefit from higher spend per guest, even with lower visitor throughput. Restaurants, museums, and activity operators could see steadier revenue streams if they tailor offerings to international tastes and expectations while preserving Singapore’s hallmark efficiency and hospitality. For travelers, this translates into a richer, more varied visit that extends beyond shopping alone.
Looking ahead: balancing volume and value
As Singapore markets its attractions anew, the focus appears to be on value rather than volume. The evolving tourism landscape could attract longer-stay visitors and repeat travelers who are willing to invest in a broader spectrum of experiences. If the trend persists, Singapore’s tourism sector may emerge stronger, more resilient, and less dependent on a single revenue stream—retail shopping—while still leveraging its global reputation for cuisine, culture, and cutting-edge experiences.
