Andhra Pradesh is aiming to emerge as a world-class destination for MICE tourism, with the state government preparing a new policy focused on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. During his visit to Singapore, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics Nara Lokesh toured the iconic Suntec City and held discussions with DP Urban Architects Director Anandan Karunakaran on developing large-scale convention and exhibition infrastructure in the state.
Lokesh said the government is working on a comprehensive strategy to position Andhra Pradesh as a leading hub for international business events and conventions. To streamline approvals for global event organizers, the state plans to establish dedicated MICE bureaus in Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, and Tirupati under a single-window system.
The minister revealed that Andhra Pradesh has already approved four convention centres in Amaravati to support the growing MICE ecosystem. He also announced plans for a world-class MICE facility in Visakhapatnam. According to Lokesh, the number of hotel rooms across the state is expected to quadruple and touch 20,000 over the next five years, with several national and international hospitality brands showing interest in Amaravati.
Highlighting Visakhapatnam’s growing importance, Lokesh said the coastal city is already attracting major global technology companies such as Google, TCS, and Cognizant. He added that the state has also announced the Andhra Mandapam project in partnership with the India Trade Promotion Organisation to strengthen Vizag’s position as a convention and exhibition destination.
During the interaction, DP Urban Architects Director Anandan Karunakaran explained that Suntec City, located in the heart of Singapore’s downtown business district, was designed as a state-of-the-art event venue spread across 42,000 square metres. He said Singapore Tourism Board is aggressively promoting the country as a trusted and safe destination for global MICE events, with a long-term vision to significantly boost tourism revenue by 2040.
Karunakaran also noted that sustainability certifications and eco-friendly event infrastructure are becoming increasingly important in the MICE industry, adding that Singapore is already planning another major MICE hub alongside existing venues like Suntec City and Marina Bay Sands.