Industry News

The American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (AmChamSG) has unveiled its 2025 Manpower Survey findings at the Human Capital Conference, highlighting significant workforce changes driven by artificial intelligence (AI). The survey, developed with the Centre for Creative Leadership, reveals that over 40% of companies expect to reduce headcount within the next year, particularly in data analytics, customer service, and finance. Additionally, nearly half of the companies foresee job reductions due to AI adoption over the next two years.

The survey also notes a positive trend in narrowing skill gaps among mid-level local talent, particularly in creativity, adaptability, entrepreneurial thinking, and communication. However, a lack of global exposure remains a barrier, with 46% of companies citing it as a major constraint for Singaporeans and permanent residents in attaining senior leadership roles.

Hybrid work adoption is another key finding, with 56% of companies fully embracing flexible work policies. Employers are also investing in structured training and mentorship programmes to bolster the local talent pipeline. Elisa Mallis, Global Vice President of Research Innovation at the Centre for Creative Leadership, stated, “The survey results affirm that progress happens when stakeholders—government, industry leaders, and workers—move together.”

AmChamSG also recognised outstanding graduates from the Singapore University of Social Sciences at the conference, underscoring its commitment to nurturing future business leaders. CEO Hsien-Hsien Lei emphasised the importance of such talent, noting their resilience and adaptability. The full survey results are available on AmChamSG’s website.

Singapore’s National Quantum Office (NQO), in collaboration with France’s Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) and Quantonation, announced three new research partnerships at the French–Singaporean Quantum Symposium (FSQS 2025) in Paris on 25 November. These agreements focus on quantum computing, quantum photonics, and energy-efficient quantum technologies, supporting Singapore’s National Quantum Strategy.

The partnerships involve expanding the CNRS–NQO Memorandum of Understanding to include quantum computing, alongside existing work in quantum photonics and energetics. This collaboration aims to improve quantum computers’ error-handling capabilities, crucial for applications like drug discovery and financial modelling.

Additionally, a Master Research Collaboration Agreement was signed between Pasqal, a French quantum computing company, and Singapore’s National-level Quantum Programmes. This agreement will focus on advancing research in neutral atom quantum processors, enhancing the accuracy of quantum computation and the efficiency of algorithms.

Quobly, a French quantum startup, has also entered a Research Collaboration Agreement with Singapore’s National Quantum Federated Foundry. This partnership will work on developing silicon spin-qubit technologies, essential for building next-generation quantum devices.

The FSQS 2025 symposium, jointly organised by NQO, CNRS, and Quantonation, highlighted the ongoing collaboration between France and Singapore in quantum technologies. The event featured discussions on translating scientific discoveries into practical applications, with notable contributions from quantum pioneers such as Nobel Laureate Alain Aspect and Artur Ekert.

The next edition of FSQS will be held in Singapore in 2026, continuing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in quantum research and development.

JTC has announced the launch of a new site at Pandan Road as part of the second half of the 2025 Industrial Government Land Sales (IGLS) Programme. This site, which is the fourth of five Confirmed List sites for the period, offers a 33-year lease tenure, an extension aimed at improving the industrial land lease framework. The tender for this site will close on 20 January 2026 at 11:00 am.

The Pandan Road site spans 0.66 hectares with a gross plot ratio of 2.5 and is zoned for B2 industrial use. This launch is part of JTC’s ongoing efforts to meet the demand for industrial land in Singapore, providing businesses with opportunities to expand their operations.

Interested parties can purchase the Tenderer’s Packet for S$185.30, inclusive of GST, through the official JTC website. This packet contains all necessary details for potential bidders to participate in the tender process.

The enhancements to the lease framework, including the additional three-year tenure, are designed to offer greater flexibility and support for industrial developments. This initiative is expected to attract a range of businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in Singapore’s industrial sector.

Further information regarding the site and the IGLS Programme can be accessed on JTC’s website. The launch of the Pandan Road site underscores JTC’s commitment to facilitating industrial growth and development in Singapore.

ComfortDelGro Corporation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hello Robotaxi to jointly deploy and commercialise Robotaxi services in China and overseas markets. The announcement was made at the 15th Singapore-Guangdong Collaboration Council Meeting in Guangzhou. This strategic partnership will integrate ComfortDelGro’s fleet management expertise with Hello Robotaxi’s L4-level autonomous driving technology to establish an intelligent hybrid dispatching system for taxi and Robotaxi services.

The collaboration will focus on deploying Robotaxi services through ComfortDelGro’s extensive point-to-point operations, leveraging its fleet management experience and physical assets such as electric vehicle charging stations. Hello Robotaxi, backed by Alibaba, Ant Group, and CATL, will contribute its autonomous driving technology and data from its large user base. The partnership will also explore new business areas, including car rental, battery swapping, and safety officer training.

Cheng Siak Kian, Group CEO of ComfortDelGro, stated, “This partnership strengthens our technological ecosystem and underscores the importance of collaboration in next-generation mobility.” Yang Lei, Co-founder and CEO of Hello Group, added, “By combining Hello Robotaxi’s 800 million users and L4 autonomous technology with ComfortDelGro’s expertise in fleet management, we aim to effectively scale Robotaxi operations.”

This collaboration aligns with ComfortDelGro’s strategy to develop autonomous vehicle capabilities, building on its Autonomous Vehicle Centre of Excellence established in 2022. The partnership aims to create a replicable smart mobility ecosystem across ComfortDelGro’s global network, enhancing operational efficiency and user experience.

HID, a leader in identity solutions, has introduced its latest innovation, the HID Amico™ Biometric Facial Recognition Readers, at The Security Event Asia 2025 in Singapore. This marks the first public showcase of the technology, designed to provide fast and secure access in high-traffic areas, aligning with Singapore’s Smart Nation goals.

The HID Amico readers are tailored for seamless access in smart buildings and facilities, integrating with HID Mobile Access and credential management platforms. This integration allows organisations to manage identities and permissions within a unified system, enhancing scalability and compliance. Prabhuraj Patil, Senior Director of Physical Access Control Solutions at HID, highlighted the importance of the technology, stating, “Buildings are becoming smarter and more connected, whilst regulations around data privacy and security continue to tighten. HID Amico helps organisations navigate this shift by bringing together biometric precision and automation to secure every access point seamlessly.”

As Singapore’s access control market is projected to reach $241m (S$341.5m) by 2033, driven by digitalisation and smart infrastructure expansion, HID’s innovation is timely. The HID Amico is available in a 3.5-inch model across ASEAN and India, with a 7-inch model expected in early 2026.

HID’s commitment to bridging physical and digital identity management through biometrics is evident in this launch, promising enhanced security and user experience in smart city environments.

SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) and Safran Aircraft Engines (SAE) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to enhance their collaboration on CFM LEAP engine maintenance services in Singapore. This agreement aims to explore expanding the current scope of services, potentially establishing a joint venture for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operations. Currently, SIAEC conducts LEAP engine Quick Turn maintenance at its Changi North facility.

The partnership seeks to address the increasing global demand for LEAP engine maintenance. Wong Yue Jeen, Chief Commercial Officer of SIAEC, expressed enthusiasm about deepening the partnership, stating, “This collaboration builds upon SIAEC’s longstanding relationship with the Safran Group, and would potentially enable us to enhance our contribution to SAE’s LEAP maintenance network.”

Nicolas Potier, Executive Vice President Support & Services for SAE, highlighted the commitment to expanding the global MRO network, saying, “By combining SIAEC’s recognised expertise in LEAP engine maintenance with our own capabilities, we aim to deliver excellence and innovation in MRO.”

As of now, no definitive agreements have been reached, and there is no certainty that such agreements will be finalised. Both companies will announce any significant developments regarding the collaboration’s expansion.

SIAEC is a prominent provider of MRO services in the Asia-Pacific region, serving over 80 international carriers. Meanwhile, Safran Aircraft Engines, part of the international high-technology group Safran, is a leading supplier of engines for commercial jets through CFM International, a joint venture with GE Aerospace.

ART SG, Southeast Asia’s leading international art fair by Founding and lead partner UBS, will return for its fourth edition from 23 to 25 January 2026 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. For the first time, the fair will include S.E.A. Focus, a platform championing Southeast Asian contemporary art, bringing together 106 exhibitors from over 30 countries and territories. The event aims to reinforce Singapore’s status as a cultural capital and hub for artistic exchange.

The inclusion of S.E.A. Focus introduces a new curatorial theme, “The Humane Agency,” highlighting Southeast Asian artists as agents of compassion. ART SG will also launch the ART SG FUTURES Prize, presented by UBS, to recognise outstanding emerging artists. Additionally, the SAM ART SG Fund will support acquisitions for the Singapore Art Museum’s collection.

Magnus Renfrew, Co-founder of ART SG, expressed excitement about the fair’s growth and the debut of S.E.A. Focus, stating, “We are delighted to present the fourth edition of ART SG, which continues to grow as the leading platform for contemporary art in Southeast Asia and beyond.”

The event will feature prominent international galleries such as White Cube and Thaddaeus Ropac, alongside regional galleries like Richard Koh Fine Art and Gajah Gallery. Newcomers include Castelli Gallery and Ashvita’s, expanding the fair’s international scope.

Visitors can expect an expanded programme of events during Singapore Art Week, enhancing the cultural experience. The fair aims to strengthen connections between artists, collectors, and the global art community, offering a comprehensive view of Southeast Asia’s vibrant contemporary art scene.

A recent study by Semperis reveals that 59% of Singaporean organisations have experienced ransomware attacks during holidays, weekends, and major corporate events. This figure is higher than in the US, UK, and Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), highlighting a significant vulnerability during these periods. The 2025 Holiday Ransomware Risk Report indicates that cybercriminals exploit reduced cybersecurity staffing during these times.

Semperis Vice President for APAC/Japan, Gerry Sillars, emphasised the importance of protecting identity systems, stating, “The holidays may bring downtime for companies, but cybercriminals don’t take days off.” The report found that 79% of ransomware attacks in Singapore occurred after significant corporate events, such as mergers or layoffs, with 63% of companies targeted following a merger or acquisition.

The study also highlights that 67% of Singaporean organisations reduce their security operations centre (SOC) staffing during holidays to provide employees with work/life balance. However, this reduction leaves them vulnerable, as 30% did not anticipate attacks during these periods. Additionally, whilst 96% of organisations have identity threat detection and response (ITDR) plans, only 39% include procedures for vulnerability remediation.

The findings underscore the need for enhanced vigilance and robust cybersecurity measures, particularly during times of organisational disruption. As ransomware attacks continue to target periods of reduced security focus, organisations must prioritise both detection and response strategies to safeguard their critical assets.

Lion Global Investors, part of the OCBC Group, has unveiled the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund, marking Singapore’s first insured physical gold fund securely vaulted within the nation. Launched in conjunction with Singapore’s 60th anniversary celebrations, this initiative aims to leverage Singapore’s strengths as a global financial centre and a leading gold hub. The fund, distributed by OCBC, MariBank Singapore, Great Eastern, and Singlife Group, with Standard Chartered Bank Singapore as custodian, represents a significant collaboration within the financial sector.

The fund seeks to track the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Gold Price AM and invests in LBMA Good Delivery gold, fully safeguarded in Singapore. This launch is timely, as gold remains a reliable safe haven amid geopolitical uncertainties. Singapore’s strategic location, near 25% of the world’s gold mining supply, positions it well to emerge as a leading gold hub.

Teo Joo Wah, CEO of Lion Global Investors, stated, “We are thrilled to be launching the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund, which addresses growing demand for alternative assets in diversified portfolios.” The fund offers digital accessibility, making gold investment more accessible to a broader investor base.

The fund is available for subscription through various partners, including OCBC and MariBank Singapore, with availability dates ranging from late November to December 2025. This initiative not only enhances Singapore’s status as a gold hub but also provides investors with a secure and innovative investment option.

CIMB Singapore has partnered with ESGpedia to launch the SME Sustainability-Linked Loan/Financing Programme, making sustainability-linked financing more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Since its inception in August 2024, the programme has enabled over 100 companies to set greenhouse gas reduction targets and benefit from preferential interest rates.

Traditionally reserved for large corporations, Sustainability-Linked Loans (SLLs) are now available to SMEs through a simplified and cost-effective approach. The programme aligns with the Loan Market Association’s Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles and leverages ESGpedia’s digital platform, allowing SMEs to calculate and monitor their greenhouse gas emissions independently.

Adam Lim, Head of Commercial Banking Product and Strategy at CIMB Singapore, emphasised the importance of the partnership: “To make sustainability-linked financing truly scalable, we needed a trusted partner who could simplify the process and lower the cost of carbon accounting and verification.”

The programme incentivises SMEs with tiered interest rate discounts based on their achievement of Sustainability Performance Targets. Participants like Bespoke Cleanpro Pte Ltd and SN Real Estate Pte Ltd have praised the intuitive design of the ESGpedia platform, which facilitates the calculation of baseline emissions and sustainability reporting.

CIMB’s initiative contributes to its sustainable finance target of RM300b by 2030, reinforcing its commitment to a lower-carbon economy. As the global economy shifts towards sustainability, CIMB plans to expand these digital tools regionally, further integrating technology into its sustainability strategies.