Asia’s $78 Billion AI and Quantum Inflection Point Draws Global Tech Leaders to Singapore

Second edition of GITEX AI ASIA convenes global tech enterprises, governments, influential investors and startups from over 110 countries at Marina Bay Sands, from 9-10 April 2026.

Singapore, April 2026: The forces shaping the next phase of artificial intelligence and quantum computing are rapidly intensifying across Asia. Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia are now home to some of the world’s largest data centre ecosystems, expected to contribute nearly 40% of global data capacity by 2030—positioning the region as a critical backbone for future AI infrastructure.

At the same time, investment in artificial intelligence across the Asia-Pacific region is accelerating at an exceptional pace. According to IDC, AI spending in the region is projected to reach US$78 billion by 2026, highlighting a strong commitment from both governments and enterprises to integrate AI into key sectors such as healthcare, finance, and public services.

This powerful alignment of capital, infrastructure, and innovation will take centre stage next month as GITEX AI ASIA gathers global technology leaders from more than 110 countries at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, from 9–10 April 2026. Organized by GITEX, the world’s largest network of technology and AI events, the platform will host over 550 companies and startups, 250 international investors managing a combined US$350 billion in assets, and more than 175 speakers. The event further strengthens Singapore’s role as a strategic gateway connecting Asia’s innovation ecosystems with global markets and investment.

From Semiconductors to Sovereign IP: Singapore’s Strategic Advantage

Singapore continues to solidify its position as a global computing powerhouse—accounting for approximately 15% of worldwide semiconductor production while also serving as a hub for advanced AI research. The inauguration of a new quantum research and development centre in March 2026 reflects the nation’s ambition to accelerate real-world quantum applications and expand its intellectual property capabilities.

The event will feature an influential lineup of AI leaders and policymakers. Kotaro Tamura, Japan’s former Senator and Vice Minister for Fiscal and Economic Policy, will share insights on how Asia can strengthen its AI leadership amid a fragmented global economic landscape. Ken Lin, CEO and Co-Founder of Aires Applied Quantum Technologies, will address the challenge of balancing rapid innovation with long-term priorities such as trust, governance, and resilience. He emphasized that their proprietary quantum advancements highlight Singapore’s growing strength in deep-tech intellectual property and innovation.

On the exhibition floor, Gorilla Technology will present advanced solutions for building cyber-secure, data-driven urban environments. CEO and Chairman Jay Chandan stressed the importance of integrating intelligent infrastructure, security systems, and smart city platforms to support sustainable digital expansion.

Global telecommunications leader Ericsson will also participate, showcasing its advancements in AI, 5G, and cloud technologies. Yasin Khan, CTO for Mission Critical Networks & Enterprise across Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India, noted that the event’s strength lies in uniting startups, enterprises, academia, and policymakers to foster meaningful collaboration in the evolving AI landscape.

Adding to its international appeal, GITEX AI ASIA will feature country pavilions from across the world. Belgium, Canada, and the Philippines will make their debut, alongside strong participation from Australia, China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Singapore, South Korea, the UAE, and Vietnam—reflecting the increasingly competitive and cooperative global tech environment.

Global Investors Eye Asia’s Deep-Tech Potential

As Asia’s AI ecosystem continues to expand, global investors are increasingly focusing on the region’s deep-tech opportunities. The event’s investor programme will bring together venture capital firms, corporate investors, and family offices managing over US$350 billion in assets, all looking to tap into Asia’s rapidly growing innovation landscape.

QAI Ventures, a Switzerland-based venture capital firm, is among those exploring opportunities in the region. Founder and General Partner Alexandra Beckstein highlighted Singapore’s accelerating momentum in quantum and AI, driven by strong government support, cutting-edge research, a robust IP ecosystem, and a dynamic startup culture. The firm plans to deepen its presence in Asia-Pacific by supporting the growth of scalable, innovation-driven startups.

North Star Asia Highlights Next-Gen Startups

The event will also host North Star Asia, the regional edition of the world’s largest startup showcase, Expand North Star. More than 300 startups from over 50 countries—including 65 award-winning ventures and over 20 unicorns—will present cutting-edge solutions across industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and mobility.

Among the standout innovations, UK-based Literal Labs will introduce a logic-based AI architecture capable of delivering high-performance results while consuming up to 50 times less energy. China’s Timekettle will unveil advanced bone-conduction interpreter earbuds enabling real-time multilingual communication. Meanwhile, Japan’s Lifescapes is advancing non-invasive brain-computer interface technology for stroke rehabilitation, and Ashirase, backed by Honda, will showcase a shoe-mounted navigation system that uses haptic feedback to guide visually impaired users.

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About GITEX AI ASIA

GITEX AI ASIA, Asia’s largest and most global tech, startup, and digital investments event, takes place at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, from April 9-10, 2026. Powered by the world’s largest tech and AI show, GITEX GLOBAL, it serves as a global hub for innovation and collaboration, featuring dedicated industry verticals covering artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, data centres, digital health and biotech, industry 4.0-5.0, and deep tech. The 2026 edition brings together over 550 global technology enterprises and startups, 250+ influential investors, 175+ speakers, with participation from more than 110 countries across the exhibition and conferences.     

Media Contact:

Sean Muir, PR Director, GITEX AI ASIA |  media@gitexasia.com

Zeeshan is a chai-fueled digital designer who blends AI and aesthetics to create eye-catching image bundles. When he’s not crafting visuals, he’s probably exploring new tech, sketching ideas, or watching food documentaries.