BIZSpoke | Singapore SMEs Under Strain as Iran Conflict Drives Up Costs

24 APRIL 2026

SBF's Poll: 2 in 3 Singapore Firms Hit by Iran Conflict as Viability Concerns Rise

Two-thirds of Singapore businesses report moderate-to-severe impact from the Iran conflict, with 66% hit by energy costs and over half by logistics and demand pressures. SMEs are disproportionately affected—only 36% are confident managing ongoing volatility versus 78% of large firms. More than half fear for long-term viability as businesses raise prices, conserve cash, and call for targeted support.

FULL REPORT

WHAT'S HAPPENING

Secure Your Seat at Future Economy Conference

Be part of our premier platform convening policymakers and industry leaders to drive Singapore’s next phase of growth. Access strategic perspectives on national priorities, transformation pathways, and growth opportunities.

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Receive a Complimentary Report to Enhance Business Operations

The Go Digital Advisor by IMDA enables SMEs to identify top business needs and recommends right solutions for overcoming identified business challenges. It guides SMEs through key areas including Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Operations, Human Resources, Sustainability, and Cybersecurity, helping them identify their top three business gaps and recommending pre-approved, market-proven digital solutions with grant support available. Complete your self-assessment today to receive a complimentary report.

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Turn AI Ambitions into Real Business Impact

Designed for Singapore SMEs across all sectors with a minimum annual revenue of $1 million, the Technology Implementation Advisory Services (TIAS) – AI and Automation initiative helps businesses navigate complex solutions with expert, end-to-end guidance—from scoping to vendor selection and implementation. Register your interest for a complimentary advisory session.

SUPPORTED EVENTS

PwC Singapore Launches Trade Advisory Hub to Support Businesses in a Changing Trade Landscape

PwC Singapore has launched a new Trade Advisory Hub, committing S$4 million over three years to help businesses navigate increasingly complex global trade and regulatory environments. Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board, the hub will provide integrated advice across trade, supply chains and tax, and develop technology‑enabled solutions to help companies manage risk, adapt to regulatory changes and identify international growth opportunities.

How Can ASEAN Turn Commodity Shifts into Competitive Advantage?

Rising commodity prices and shifting trade flows are reshaping ASEAN’s agribusiness landscape. The Dialogue on Sustainable World Resources, organised by the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, explores how the region’s commodity sectors can navigate evolving challenges and opportunities.

What If Growth, Resilience and Sustainability Are Pulling You in Different Directions?

As expectations rise, MSMEs are under pressure to balance growth, resilience, and impact. This event creates space for honest conversations — focusing on how sustainability can be approached in a more balanced way that delivers real value for businesses.

The Future Enterprise: Aligning Profit, Purpose and Performance

Established in 2021, the Vietnam-Singapore Board Forum (VSBF) convenes board directors, C-suite leaders and thought leaders from Vietnam, Singapore and beyond to exchange perspectives on governance and sustainability.

Under the 2026 theme, The Future Enterprise: Aligning Profit, Purpose and Performance to achieve sustainable growth, the Forum will examine how boards can create value amid technological disruption and the complexities of the green transition.

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

From Exposure to Expansion in China with SBF

From trade show exposure to real market entry, Kim Guan Guan leveraged SBF to break into China. Through platforms like CIIE, the brand secured distributors, expanded sales channels, and turned visibility into tangible growth—demonstrating how the right ecosystem can accelerate international expansion.