Global business meets strategy this February—where power players shape the future of Asia-Canada relations. The Asia Business Leaders Advisory Council (ABLAC), a premier network founded by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada in 2016, will hold its Annual Meeting on February 9, 2026, in Singapore.
Each year, this exclusive gathering brings together influential figures from across Asia and Canada to explore new pathways for trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration. It’s more than just a meeting—it’s a strategic forum where ideas evolve into actionable partnerships. ABLAC’s mission centers on identifying untapped opportunities for deeper Canada-Asia engagement and translating them into tangible outcomes for businesses and policymakers alike.
The Council serves as a vital think tank for decision-makers, offering insights and expert advice to federal and provincial leaders in Canada. By doing so, it strengthens Canada’s long-term presence in the Indo-Pacific region—a market that many believe will define the next era of global growth. But here’s where it gets interesting: as economic power shifts toward Asia, will Canada be ready to fully seize its role in this changing landscape?
Because this is a by-invitation-only event, participation is limited to an elite circle of executives and policymakers. That exclusivity raises a question some might find controversial: does limiting access help maintain focus and influence—or does it risk shutting out innovative voices that could redefine the Canada-Asia business dialogue?
What do you think—should events like ABLAC remain exclusive to top leaders, or open their doors wider to emerging entrepreneurs and thinkers? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate could shape the future of how global business collaborations are built.