Jaspreet Bindra At DMWF Asia 2025, industry leaders discuss the shift from traditional advertising to AI-enhanced influencer marketing, emphasizing authentic consumer engagement.
The Digital Marketing World Forum (DMWF) Asia 2025, held at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands on February 26-27, brought together over 300 senior marketing professionals to explore the evolving landscape of digital marketing. A central theme was the transition from conventional advertising to influencer-driven strategies, amplified by artificial intelligence (AI).
Joshua Mok, Business Development Manager at Social Jet, highlighted a significant change in consumer behavior: “Traditional marketing still works, but it has to evolve. People now place more trust in recommendations. When they see something they’re interested in, they don’t just buy it immediately—they look for others talking about it, sharing their experiences. That’s where influencers play a huge role.”
This sentiment reflects a broader industry trend. A recent survey indicates that approximately 63% of influencer marketing professionals plan to incorporate AI into their campaigns this year.
AI’s role extends beyond automation; it’s instrumental in identifying suitable influencers, analyzing audience engagement, and predicting campaign outcomes.
The forum also addressed the rise of virtual influencers—AI-generated personas that engage audiences without human intervention. Over 60% of brands have collaborated with virtual influencers, leveraging their controlled narratives and consistent brand alignment.
As AI continues to permeate influencer marketing, the emphasis remains on authenticity. Brands are encouraged to foster genuine connections, ensuring that both human and virtual influencers resonate with target audiences. The discussions at DMWF Asia 2025 underscore a pivotal shift: integrating advanced technology with authentic storytelling to navigate the complexities of modern consumer engagement.
