Stories from Singapore

Mr. The announcement was made by Singaporean officials. The policy will initially apply to workers from China and Thailand. Firms will no longer be required to conduct mandatory overseas skill testing before workers enter the country. Singapore will reduce hiring timelines for new foreign construction workers beginning January 20, 2027. The move is intended to create jobs and act as a buffer against external shocks through increased intra-region trade. The move follows discussions regarding intra-region trade potential within ASEAN and South Asia. Businesses in Singapore are expected to adopt more cautious hiring and wage plans according to the latest report from the Manpower Ministry. Manufacturing firms anticipate growth while the services industry remains wary of worsening conditions.

National Development Minister Desmond Lee announced that prospective construction workers will undergo local testing instead of overseas testing starting January 2027. The measure aims to streamline the hiring process for construction workers, who may be able to be hired approximately three months faster. Analysts noted cautious sentiment in the F&B, accommodation, and retail trade sectors due to shifting demand. Authorities stated the move is necessary to support strong construction growth expected in the coming years. Starting January 20, 2026, workers from China and Thailand will no longer be required to pass a skills test before entering Singapore. Industry feedback indicated that overseas certifications often do not match local deployment needs. The Workers' Party Central Executive Committee met on Tuesday and Wednesday to discuss a disciplinary panel's report.

The practice is permitted under existing regulations. The application of the punishment differs between boys and girls, according to the report. The move aims to raise disciplinary standards within the education system.

Latest research from MONEY2020 suggests the fintech market in Southeast Asia is no longer expanding at its previous rapid rate. This follows a period of explosive growth in the region for payments, transfers, and unicorn company formation.

The Transport and Logistics Bureau announced a subsidy for auto LPG to assist nearly 17,000 taxis. The changes are scheduled to take effect next Monday. The operator is currently onboarding licensed cross-border taxis from GrabCab and other taxi operators. Licensed taxis will be permitted to drop off passengers anywhere in Singapore starting next Monday. Currently, the taxi terminal at Bansan Street serves as the only designated cross-border terminal in the country. Additionally, taxis in foreign countries will be permitted to pick up passengers from new designated points via ride-hailing bookings. Fares for trips from Bansan Street Terminal to Johor Bahru are expected to increase to at least 80 Singapore dollars, up from the current 50 to 60 range.

Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) stated it is ready to support local businesses following global developments in the oil market. The announcement follows news that the UAE is leaving the oil cartel, which accounts for approximately 3% of the world's crude supply.

The Profiteering Commission interviewed Young Master Yusuf and several employees from Straits Cattle Trading regarding meat trade pricing. Investigators found the company generated high profits from mutton sales despite making standard profits from cattle.

The Institute of Technical Education is providing security operations trainees with an immersive facility to prepare for frontline operations. The training centre aims to ensure a steady pipeline of security personnel. Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs Faisal Ibrahim stated the program aims to build a security workforce capable of harnessing advanced technology. The center is intended to ensure a steady pipeline of security prevention professionals. Ibrahim noted such programs serve as a key pathway to attract and develop ITE graduates for the home team. The center features an ICA zone with mock-ups including vehicular search areas and x-ray scanners for hands-on border operations training. The two and a half year program has attracted over 90 trainees per cohort. Simulations are also used to help trainees manage complex security situations.

Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan stated Singapore will champion stronger economic ties between the European Union and Southeast Asia. Balakrishnan expressed a desire to accelerate an EU-ASEAN free trade deal to bolster trade dependence. The initiative will be supported by the European Chamber of Commerce, also known as EuroCham, in Singapore. The announcement comes as part of broader regional economic engagement strategies.

Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry said it stands ready to support businesses regarding global energy developments. The ministry noted that such developments will impact firms and will continue engaging them to understand needs and concerns.