Thousands gathered for Asia Pacific’s leading business events trade show in Melbourne, generating optimism across an industry still rebuilding post-pandemic confidence.
AIME 2026 welcomed more than 5,000 attendees, over 1,500 vetted buyers and more than 750 exhibitors from 36 countries across the three-day event.
First-time participating countries include South Africa, the UAE and Uganda, alongside strong representation from traditional markets.
For EAs involved in corporate event planning and business travel coordination, the scale and enthusiasm of AIME 2026 signals renewed momentum in the business events sector.
Record business generation continues
More than 25,000 pre-scheduled meetings took place across the trade show, building on momentum that generated more than $400 million in business following AIME 2025.
Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events, said the growth reflected industry confidence: “AIME 2026 is the biggest show our team has delivered to date and the continued growth in buyers, exhibitors and international participation reflects the confidence our industry places in the event.”
Sustainability takes centre stage
AIME has made significant progress toward its Net Zero Carbon Events commitments, targeting a 50% reduction in directly controlled emissions by 2030.
Venue-related emissions have dropped dramatically, largely due to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s sustainability credentials.
For EAs managing corporate events, the sustainability focus reflects growing pressure to consider environmental impacts in venue and supplier selection.
Professional development spotlight
The opening day featured Knowledge Monday, AIME’s professional development programme, with more than 1,500 attendees exploring this year’s theme of ‘Expertise Matters’.
Three keynote speakers and 20 breakout sessions addressed the credibility and strategic influence business events professionals bring to rapidly changing environments.
Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau, highlighted AIME’s regional significance: “We are proud to be the leading business events trade show in the region and to provide an unparalleled opportunity for buyers and exhibitors to meet and generate business together.”
Industry outlook strengthens
Tourism Australia managing director Robin Mack emphasised the event’s global impact: “Events like AIME are so valuable for putting Victoria and Australia’s business events offering on the world stage with planners and decision makers.”
The strong attendance and business generation at AIME 2026 suggests the sector has moved beyond recovery into growth mode, providing confidence for EAs planning corporate events and incentive programs throughout 2026.
