NMP Neil Parekh calls for review of public finances to benefit Singaporeans

NMP and SBF Council Member Neil Parekh emphasised the need to prioritise economic growth and job creation for Singaporeans in Parliament on 7 February. He warned of global economic volatility and stressed the importance of prudent fiscal policies to fund crucial development programmes. He also underscored managing Singapore's reserves effectively is of great importance, given its small and open economy.

In another parliamentary speech on 6 February, Mr Parekh stressed Singapore's need to uphold its reputation for a stable business environment and advocated for robust policies to support local SMEs. He urged the enactment of the Prevention of Proliferation Financing and Other Matters Bill to combat financial crimes. Click here to watch the second video.

NMP Mark Lee urges Government action on workplace mental health support

NMP and SBF Council Member Mark Lee underscored the importance of developing support mechanisms that destigmatise mental health issues during his address in Parliament on 6 February. He urged the Government to explore ways of engaging and incentivising more companies to implement interventions to address workplace stresses, and emphasised the importance of ongoing dialogue with the business community. Mr Lee also proposed tailoring mental health support to meet the specific needs of various occupational groups who may face specific mental health stresses.

Budget 2024 wish list for businesses

SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon was interviewed by CNA938 on 6 February where he shared about what businesses are looking forward to in the upcoming Budget 2024. Mr Kok said businesses face rising costs and an uncertain economic outlook due to global uncertainties, with key concerns including increased business costs, financing challenges, and manpower issues. Support measures that businesses are looking forward to include grants to mitigate costs, support workforce development and boost internationalisation efforts.

SME Leaders engage Ministers in 2^nd pre-Budget Ministerial Dialogue

Business leaders from the SBF SME Committee and ASME held pre-Budget talks with Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat, and Minister of State for Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth Low Yen Ling on 2 February. They discussed collaborative strategies to address upcoming challenges and seize new opportunities. Despite economic challenges, SMEs can thrive with support. SBF is committed to working with both the business community and the government to foster solutions and enhance enterprise capabilities.

SBF and EnterpriseSG host 1^st TAC Strategy Day to shape TAC sector's path forward

SBF, in partnership with Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), hosted nearly 50 presidents and Executive Directors from various Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs) for the inaugural TAC Strategy Day. The event aimed to collaboratively strategise the future direction of the TAC sector, focusing on enhancing relevance, strengthening value propositions, and amplifying the impact of activities on businesses. This initiative is particularly crucial amidst economic uncertainties and an increasingly complex operating landscape.

Singapore-China Economic Partnership Conference boosts bilateral trade collaborations

SBF and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) co-organised the Singapore-China Economic Partnership Conference on 1 February. Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Ms Low Yen Ling graced the event. Three memoranda of understanding (MOUs) were signed to facilitate business exchanges and activities.

More Singapore firms join China's mega trade fairs

To fast-track entry into the Chinese market, more local businesses are participating in China's commercial expos such as CAEXPO and CIIE. The upcoming 30-day reciprocal visa-free arrangement between Singapore and China is fostering optimism for increased partnerships as well. Kelvin Kee, Executive Director of the International Business Division (IBD), highlighted that participating in trade fairs provides businesses with ample opportunities to engage with known and unknown companies, along with connecting with personnel from different Chinese provinces and local government officials.

KPMG Singapore Budget 2024 Seminar

In the face of geopolitical challenges, impending changes in the international tax scene, a global talent crunch, and an increasing need for sustainability, will Budget 2024 ensure that Singapore can rise to a new reality and build a future-ready city amidst growing complexities

KPMG Singapore Budget 2024 Seminar will be held on 5 March 2024, at JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach. Come experience a wide range of essential tax solutions and tools at the booth showcase.

Launch of Company of Good Recognition 2.0

Join the ranks of purpose-driven businesses in Singapore! SBF's ESG Coordinating Office (ESGCO) partners with the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) for the Company of Good (COG) initiative. By becoming a COG member, you'll be recognised for your contributions across 5 Impact Areas namely People, Society, Governance, Environment, and Economic dimensions. Embrace the call to do right and do good – join us in making a positive impact!

[15 February 2024]

Masterclass: Singapore's Workplace Fairness Legislation

[20, 21 February 2024]

Understanding Letters of Credit *Popular!*

[21, 22 February 2024]

Evaluate the Preparation of Shipping Documents (SSG Funded)

[26 February 2024]

Introduction to Free Trade Agreements and Rules of Origin

[27, 28, 29 February, 05, 06, 07 March 2024]

Establish TikTok Marketing Strategy Plan (SSG Funded)

[28 February 2024]

Practical Guide To ESG & Sustainability + Managing Risk