BIZSpoke | Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) A New Era of Cross-Border Economic Integration

10 JANUARY 2025

JS-SEZ: A Game-Changer for Singapore-Johor Economic Collaboration

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) marks a bold step toward enhanced economic integration between Singapore and Johor. Expected to create 20,000 skilled jobs and support 100 projects within a decade, the JS-SEZ targets 11 key sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, and the digital economy. With initiatives like renewable energy trading, improved transport links, and tax incentives, it offers high-value investment opportunities and streamlined business processes. Mr Teo Siong Seng, Chairman of the JS-SEZ Singapore Business Working Group at SBF, lauds its potential to address critical pain points for Singapore businesses—labour availability, movement of goods, and investment facilitation—positioning ASEAN as a competitive global hub.

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SBF CEO Discusses Key Insights on the JS-SEZ

SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon shared a cautiously optimistic outlook on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), noting rising business confidence but pointing out challenges like talent shortages and cross-border bureaucracy. He urged businesses to leverage on Johor's cost advantages and Singapore's connectivity to foster a powerful economic ecosystem.

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SCALED INTERNATIONALLY

Join Our Exclusive Business Mission to Johor Bahru

Don’t miss our business mission to Johor Bahru, Malaysia, from 19-20 February 2025! Explore the transformative Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), connect with key government agencies and partners, gain crucial insights into Johor’s business landscape, and unlock cross-border growth opportunities. Equip your business with the knowledge to succeed—secure your spot now as spaces are limited!

Local Tech Startups Eye US Market for Expansion

SBF notes a surge in interest among local tech startups eyeing the US market, with smaller firms doubling their participation over the past year. Samantha Teo, Executive Director of International Business Division at SBF, said, “There’s a lot of uncertainties, and everyone has an open mind to look at what is to come and trying to see how they can leverage on this new presidency.” With pro-innovation policies anticipated, smaller, agile companies with innovative solutions are well-placed to seize opportunities alongside larger firms.

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NATIONAL BUSINESS SURVEY 2024

BS43 - NBS2024 - Annual Business Sentiments

Key Insights from the SBF National Business Survey 2024

Released on 2 January 2025, the SBF National Business Survey (NBS) 2024 - Annual Business Sentiments Edition revealed rising business optimism, with 40% satisfied with the current climate despite challenges like rising costs and manpower constraints. Businesses are investing in training, digitalisation, and new technologies, while seeking government support to address cost pressures, workforce issues, and transformation needs. Click here for full report.

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SBF CEO Highlights Business Concerns and Priorities on CNA

SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon highlighted key findings from the SBF NBS 2024, reflecting improved Q4 business sentiment despite rising costs, manpower challenges, and geopolitical risks. He called for Budget 2025 to deliver targeted cost relief, workforce support, and investment in digitalisation and green transitions. He also emphasised the need to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global talent hub and empower businesses to build resilience through skills development and transformation.

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SUPPORTED EVENT

BS43 - Commando Training Institute Visit

Employers Invited to Experience NS Training at the Commando Training Institute

Join us on 13 February for an exclusive Employers’ Visit to the Commando Training Institute, organised by MINDEF. This unique opportunity offers a behind-the-scenes look at how our Operationally Ready National Servicemen train. There are limited slots and registration will be on a first-come-first-served basis, with up to 2 representatives per company (Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate family members). Detailed administrative instructions will be shared upon confirmation of attendance.