Singapore’s Prime Minister defended the exclusive deal struck with Taylor Swift, preventing her Eras Tour from going elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Swift performed six concerts in Singapore under this deal, drawing criticism from neighboring countries for missing out on the tourist influx her concerts bring.
The Prime Minister confirmed that Swift received incentives from a government fund to make Singapore her sole Southeast Asian destination, aiming to boost the tourism industry post-COVID-19. The cost of the deal was undisclosed.
He emphasized that the arrangement was not meant to be unfriendly towards neighboring nations in the ASEAN group. The Prime Minister suggested that had Singapore not secured the deal, another country might have done so.
When asked about potential tensions with other leaders, the Prime Minister did not provide a direct response. He highlighted the need for mutually beneficial agreements, similar to those made by Australia when Swift performed in Sydney and Melbourne before heading to Singapore.
The Prime Minister expressed that such arrangements could help grow the economy, attract visitors, and foster goodwill in the region. He acknowledged that Swift's decision on touring locations ultimately rested with her.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, hosting the ASEAN summit, attended one of Swift’s concerts in Sydney last month.
