Prime Highlights:
- Singapore reinforced its position as a leading technology and innovation hub with the opening of the Asia Photonics Expo (APE) 2026.
- The event highlights the growing role of photonics in advanced computing, artificial intelligence and next-generation data systems.
Key Facts:
- APE 2026 is being held from February 4 to 6 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore.
- The three-day expo has attracted over 350 exhibitors from 17 countries and is expected to welcome around 6,000 visitors from more than 50 countries.
Background:
Singapore strengthened its role as a technology hub with the opening of the Asia Photonics Expo (APE) 2026 on Tuesday. The 3-day event is expected to attract about 6,000 visitors from more than 50 countries. Over 350 exhibitors from 17 countries have already been confirmed to participate in the event.
The expo features photonics and the increased use of it in the technology sector, especially advanced computing, artificial intelligence, and high-performance data systems. Industry leaders said the closer link between photonics and semiconductor technologies is key to improving data transfer, energy efficiency, and system integration.
Speaking at the opening keynote, Ang Wee Seng, executive director of the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA), said the industry is moving from research-driven innovation towards large-scale industrial deployment. He noted that strong partnerships across technology development, manufacturing, and talent will play a key role in sustaining growth. Ang added that Singapore’s photonics ecosystem has a strong local foundation while maintaining global connections.
Industry experts at the conference said the use of photonics is expected to grow five times over the next ten years, with the market projected to reach around US$40 billion. Photonics is not seen as a replacement for silicon technology but as a support to it, especially in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, telecommunications, and data communication systems.
Another keynote address was delivered by Dr Patrick Lo Guo-Qiang, senior fellow for technology development at GlobalFoundries. His presentation focused on integrated photonics and its potential to become a major driver of Singapore’s next phase of semiconductor innovation.
A new addition this year is the Photonics x Semiconductor Innovation Zone, supported by Enterprise Singapore, SSIA, and the LUX Photonics Consortium. This zone brings together companies from both sectors to support collaboration and new business opportunities.
