BIZSpoke | Why Singapore Businesses Are Taking a Harder Look at Overseas Growth

10 APRIL 2026

Overseas Growth Opportunities Remain — But So Do Bigger Challenges

Many Singapore businesses still see growth beyond our shores, but going global is no longer as straightforward as it once was. This year’s findings show confidence is giving way to caution, as firms face softer demand, rising costs and more complex overseas environments. ASEAN remains the most natural next step, while bigger markets like China and India still hold promise — if businesses can navigate the risks.

The message is clear: companies do not just need ambition to expand, but sharper insights, stronger capabilities and the right support to move with confidence.

FULL REPORT

WHAT'S NEW

Trade and Energy Uncertainty: What Business Leaders Need to Watch

As global trade and energy risks intensify, business leaders are being forced to make decisions in a more volatile and fast-changing environment. This closed-door session by the Centre for the Future of Trade & Investment (CFOTI) offers timely perspectives from DBS, PwC and Rajah & Tann, alongside an in-conversation with Minister Tan See Leng and a Q&A, to help leaders understand the implications for costs, supply chains, contracts and commercial strategy — and what they need to do now to stay ahead.

Advancing TAC Capabilities for a Changing Business Environment

SBF’s refreshed TAC Alliance 2.0 is strengthening the capabilities and leadership of Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs) to better support Singapore businesses navigating a more complex and volatile environment. At TAC Summit 2026, initiatives such as the TAC Measurement Framework and Qualified TAC Director Badge were launched to strengthen governance and organisational effectiveness.

For Nimble SMEs, AI Can Be a Weapon, Not a Barrier

SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon highlights that SMEs should not see size as a barrier to AI adoption. While cost, data concerns and integration remain common challenges, targeted AI use can help smaller firms scale efficiently and compete more effectively. With strong data foundations, well-designed workflows and a ready workforce, SMEs can embed AI into core processes and unlock sustained productivity gains.

SBF Supports New Initiative to Drive Practical AI Adoption

Led by SGTech, the newly launched AI-Ready Enterprise Initiative aims to help SMEs turn AI interest into practical business impact. As a pioneer strategic partner alongside SMCCI, SBF will support members through structured learning, hands-on workshops and expert guidance to identify real-world use cases, build confidence and integrate AI more effectively into day-to-day operations.

Cybersecurity Is Every CEO’s Priority

A single cyber or AI-driven incident can disrupt operations, erode trust and expose senior leaders to serious liability. This board-level workshop, to be held on 28 April, will equip attendees with practical insights to tackle digital threats, strengthen enterprise resilience and make confident decisions. Participants will also receive an exclusive diagnostic report providing clear visibility into their organisation’s cyber risk posture.

SUSTAINABILITY-CENTRIC

SBF and NCCS Launch New Council for Climate and Business Resilience

Climate action is now a business resilience priority as geopolitical uncertainty and energy price volatility mount. To help companies respond, the National Climate Change Secretariat (NCCS) and SBF have launched the Council for a Competitive Climate Transition (C3T), co-chaired by Ambassador for Climate Action Ravi Menon and SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon. The initiative will support businesses in strengthening resilience, advancing disclosure readiness and seizing opportunities in the low-carbon transition.

Share Your Views on the Value Proposition of IHRP Certification

As IHRP marks its 10^th anniversary, this milestone offers a meaningful moment to reflect on how far we have come and how we can continue to do better. We invite you to participate in a short 10–15-minute survey to help us understand how different stakeholders perceive the value of IHRP certification. Your feedback will highlight where we deliver strong impact, uncover gaps, and shape how IHRP strengthens value for certified professionals and employers ahead.

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