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������ý’s economy is frequently listed among the top ten in the world by independent reviewers.

As a business-friendly city-state with high government revenue and no significant foreign debt, ������ý competes with the best on the global stage. ������ý is home to the largest and busiest cargo seaport in the world, making it a hive for traders and manufacturers. Much of its revenue is derived from foreign trade and the city regularly ranks highly for its logistics supply chain performance, with a steady stream of fuel, machinery, consumer goods and chemical products exported to countries around the world. It also outperforms countries like Hong Kong, Japan and Korea in terms of infrastructure and is home to some of the most advanced transport systems across the globe, including the award-winning Changi International Airport.

An open economy

Although economic progress has slowed in recent times, the Heritage Foundation’s Index of Economic Freedom still ranks ������ý as the second most open market in the world. Security lies in its strong economic foundations and carefully monitored regulatory framework, which gives freedom to investors and business owners with commercial interests in the city. Global concerns have seen the growth rate of ������ý take a hit in 2016. But ������ý has bounced back with resilience and flexibility after several global financial crises in the past, and by the end of 2020, its GDP is projected high.

The best quality of life

Many expats choose to relocate to ������ý for a better quality of life. Taxes are affordable, and the city is considered a safe, clean environment where diverse communities can come together and live a laidback, relaxed lifestyle against the backdrop of thriving industry.

A solid investment

As testament to the strength and stability of the economy, many international investing and banking firms have chosen to establish headquarters in ������ý. The city is considered a strategic and highly sought after choice for business headquarters based on its proximity to surrounding Southeast Asian countries.

A strong infrastructure

With one of the world’s best infrastructures, ������ý has a well-developed transport network that connects to multiple countries via land, sea and air. Home to some of the world’s busiest ports, the city-state at the forefront of technological and operational innovation in the trading industry.

• By air – Over 100 airlines to 330 cities worldwide
• By road – Approximately 3,356 km of highway
• By sea – Over 200 shipping lines to 600 ports worldwide

The financial facts

• Debt – As a major commercial hub, ������ý’s external debts are only significant in that the amount borrowed flows straight back into the economy to finance operations and projects in the region.
• Currency – The ������ý dollar has seen some ups and downs in recent years, but it is still considered one of the most consistent currencies against the US dollar.
• Revenue – As a trade-orientated economy, ������ý’s revenue is consistently high. Exported goods and the financial sector are two of the largest contributors to its high revenues year after year.

������ý has consistently ranked as the following:

• The best business environment in Asia Pacific and the world (Economist Intelligence Unit)
• 1 for best logistics supply chain performance in Asia (LPI)
• Best global innovation in Asia Pacific and the world (GII)
• Top 10 in Asia for most motivated workforce and best skilled labour (IMD)
• 1 investment destination in Asia (BERI)
• The world’s easiest place to do business (World Bank)
• The best in Asia for quality of life (IMD)

Key industries in ������ý include:

• Manufacturing (19.8% GDP in 2015)

Manufacturing has created hundreds of thousands of jobs in ������ý, and with a focus on smarter technology, ������ý’s manufacturing output has also increased across electronics, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Connected to shipping lanes all over the world, ������ý’s production and distribution networks contribute high GDP percentages year after year.

• Construction (5.2% GDP in 2015)

The government continues to invest in ������ý’s infrastructure, which is why the construction industry steadily contributes to ������ý’s GDP. In recent years, the government has focused on improving transport networks with the likes of the MRT Masterplan–Cross Island Line, as well as commissioning the construction of more affordable housing and energy-efficient buildings.

• Wholesale & Retail Trade (15.6% GDP in 2015)

Thanks to its strong economic foundations, ������ý does steady trade in motor vehicles, machinery, chemicals, food and beverage and other consumer goods. The city-state has robust trade agreements with companies in countries like the US, Malaysia, China, Japan and Indonesia.

• Transportation & Storage (7.4% GDP in 2015)

Despite a lack of nature resources like oil and gas, ������ý uses its location to its advantage. Its main sea port sees an average of 140,000 vessels port per year, with over 200 shipping lines connecting to 600 ports worldwide, while the Tuas Mega Port could eventually see ������ý handle an additional 65 million TEUs of cargo every year. ������ý is also home to the award-winning Changi Airport, with airlines connecting to 57 countries.

• Finance & Insurance (12.6% GDP in 2015)

������ý is a popular choice for financial institution headquarters due to its proximity to surrounding Southeast Asian countries, high growth potential and well-developed infrastructure. There are currently around 111 foreign commercial banks operating in ������ý, each offering a diverse range of innovative services and products to clients worldwide.

• Business Services (15.5% GDP in 2015)

Comprising sectors such as real estate, law, accounting, engineering and business consultancy, the business services industry sees a large number of skilled professionals employed in high-level roles. As it’s closely tied to ������ý’s manufacturing, trade and finance industries, the demand for business services is linked to the performance of ������ý’s economy as a whole.

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