TFWA office beefs up association activity

singapore The Tax Free World Association (TFWA), the largest association of duty-free and travel-related retailers, has set up an Asia Pacific office in Singapore. The anchoring of its Asia Pacific office underscores Singapore's efforts to attract more international organisations and associations (IO/IA). Based in Paris, TFWA represents some 350 suppliers of products to duty free and travel retail outlets worldwide. Members include Hermès, Cartier, L'Oréal and Nestlé. TFWA president, Erik Juul-Mortensen said: "The Asia Pacific region is an important growing region for our business and Singapore is the ideal base for our regional operations. The establishment of TFWA's office in Singapore is a significant development for the association, as it can further manage and market its activities in the region. TFWA's Asia Pacific office will also embark on a membership drive to increase its regional membership base." The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is working with the Economic Development Board to grow the IO/IA segment. Besides generating more business traffic and tourism receipts, such organisations also enhance local industry by providing niche services for industry players. STB director (covering), business travel and MICE Patricia Chua said: "Developing Singapore into a regional hub for international organisations and international associations, such as TFWA, is a win-win proposition for all parties. The IO/IA leverages on Singapore's business connectivity in the region, while the CEI industry gains from the increased sector vibrancy and a new steady source of business traffic." Business travellers make up about 20 per cent of Singapore's total visitor arrivals and contribute approximately 25 per cent to its total tourism receipts. There are 90 international organisations and associations currently operating in the island state.