Taylor Swift is so popular around the world that her music can do more than just fill stadiums: it can even influence relationships between nations. Her next show has sparked an unexpected diplomatic dispute in Asia whose consequences are unpredictable.
The controversy centers on an exclusive agreement signed by the superstar with Singapore for his Eras Tour, which has drawn criticism from political leaders in the Philippines and Thailand.
Apparently, Swift, who receives about $3 million per performance in the city-state, is going to take her great legion of Swifties to Singaporean lands with all the benefits that entails. And no other neighboring country is going to take part of this important pie.
This agreement has led Singapore to be Swift’s only destination in Southeast Asia, which has sparked discontent in neighboring countries. The exclusivity granted to Singapore has been interpreted by the Philippines and Thailand as an economic maneuver that harms the ability of other nations to benefit from cultural events of this magnitude: “It is a hurtful betrayal.”
Thus, Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand, and Filipino politician Joey Salceda have expressed their discontent, pointing out the negative impact that this supposed preferential treatment could have on regional relations and local economies. In fact, in Thailand they have pieced together why Swift had been performing there for a long time.
The six concerts have sold more than 300,000 tickets, proof of the economic potential that events of this caliber can bring to a country. In this way, Singapore authorities and concert organizers are rubbing their hands with the great impact of Swift on tourism, hospitality and retail.
