The first-ever Asia Photonics Expo (APE) organized by Informa Markets successfully kicked off at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. Spanning an exhibition area of 15,000㎡, APE 2024 saw the participation of 350 international exhibitors representing various sectors such as optical communication, optics, lasers, infrared, sensing, and displays. This event served as a valuable platform for industry professionals to engage in fruitful discussions, forge business collaborations, and exchange technological expertise with key players and experts in the field.
### Distinguished Speakers and Notable Guests
The opening ceremony of APE 2024 witnessed the presence of esteemed guests and industry professionals. The lineup of speakers included prominent figures like Mr. Yang Xiancheng, Founder and Executive President of China International Optoelectronic Expo (CIOE), Mr. Sukumar Verma, Managing Director of Informa Markets Singapore, Prof. Tjin Swee Chuan, Chairman of LUX Photonics Consortium, Dr. Prof. Yuhong Bai, Director of Light: Science & Applications, Mr. Perry Shum, President of IEEE Photonics Society, and Mr. Carlos Lee, Director General of European Photonics Industry Consortium.
### Insightful Perspectives on APE 2024
Sharing his thoughts on APE 2024, Mr. Sukumar Verma emphasized the event’s significance in showcasing the local industry strength and attracting international interest for potential partnerships and investments in Singapore and the broader Southeast Asia region. Moreover, the trade show was complemented by a series of industry conferences, academic forums, and seminars aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and networking opportunities.
In line with this sentiment, Prof. Tjin Swee Chuan of LUX Photonics Consortium voiced his appreciation for hosting the premiere photonics industry trade show in Singapore. He highlighted the importance of creating a platform for meaningful discussions, collaborations, and knowledge sharing among researchers, academia, and industry stakeholders to drive innovation in photonics technologies.
### A Platform for Global Engagement
Dr. Prof. Yuhong Bai emphasized the role of APE as a global exhibition platform for optics and photonics enterprises, particularly showcasing the growth trajectory of the Asian industry. Beyond being a mere exhibition space, APE provides a conducive environment for learning, exploration, and fostering collaborations within the industry.
Mr. Perry Shum, President of IEEE Photonics Society, underscored the significance of Singapore as a symbol of advancement and connectivity in the photonics landscape. He regarded the expo as more than just a technological showcase, but rather a hub for collaboration and transformative innovation within the industry.
### Looking Ahead
In his address, Mr. Carlos Lee, Director General of European Photonics Industry Consortium, lauded APE as a comprehensive platform catering to the diverse needs of the photonics industry and its application fields. The event served as a testament to the industry’s vibrancy and potential for growth and collaboration on a global scale.