Singapore is emerging as a key hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, backed by massive investments, expanding data infrastructure, and growing global interest in Asia’s tech ecosystem.
Southeast Asia, particularly Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, is projected to host 40% of global data center capacity by 2030. This positions the region as a critical backbone for next-generation AI systems, as demand for computing power accelerates.
Spending on AI across Asia-Pacific is also rising fast. According to the International Data Corp. (IDC), investments are expected to hit $78 billion by 2026, driven by adoption in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government services.
This momentum sets the stage for GITEX AI ASIA, which will gather global tech leaders, investors, and startups in Singapore from April 9 to 10, 2026, at Marina Bay Sands. The event is expected to bring together more than 550 companies and startups, 250 investors managing $350 billion in assets, and over 175 speakers from more than 110 countries.
Singapore’s role as a computing hub is key to the event. The country produces around 15% of the world’s semiconductors and continues to invest in advanced research. A new quantum research and development center launched in March 2026 signals its push to accelerate real-world quantum applications and expand intellectual property (IP) development.
Industry leaders say the region is moving beyond experimentation to large-scale deployment.
“We have built proprietary deep tech in quantum that reaffirms Singapore’s growing base of intellectual property,” said Ken Lin, CEO and co-founder of Aires Applied Quantum Technologies. “GITEX AI ASIA is positioned to showcase the depth and maturity of this ecosystem to the world.”
Companies are also focusing on building secure and scalable digital infrastructure.
“It’s crucial for nations to integrate intelligent infrastructure, security frameworks, and smart city platforms to sustain digital growth at scale,” said Jay Chandan, CEO and chairman of Gorilla Technology. “Global collaboration platforms like GITEX AI ASIA are key to enabling this scalability.”
Telecommunications company Ericsson is also highlighting the need for collaboration across the tech ecosystem.
“What distinguishes GITEX AI ASIA is its ability to bring together startups, enterprises, academia, and policymakers in one place,” said Yasin Khan, CTO for Mission Critical Networks and Enterprise at Ericsson Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India. “These partnerships are essential to strengthening connectivity in the AI age.”
Investors are taking notice. Venture capital firms and family offices attending the event are targeting Asia’s deep-tech sector, particularly startups developing AI and quantum solutions.
“Singapore’s AI and quantum ecosystem is gaining serious momentum,” said Alexandra Beckstein, founder and general partner of QAI Ventures. “We are strengthening our presence in Asia-Pacific to help turn ideas into scalable startups.”
The event will also feature more than 300 startups from over 50 countries. These companies are working on technologies ranging from energy-efficient AI systems to real-time translation devices and healthcare innovations.
As global competition intensifies, Asia’s combination of infrastructure, funding, and talent is positioning the region as a major force in shaping the future of AI and quantum computing.