12 SEPTEMBER 2025
At the ‘Navigating US Tariff: Adapt and Advance’ seminar organised by SBF's Centre for the Future of Trade and Investment (CFOTI), DPM Gan Kim Yong warned companies against tariff arbitrage, emphasising that transhipment violations could trigger steep U.S. penalties. He also noted that higher tariffs on regional partners may dampen demand and investment, urging firms to “wait and do” by investing in people, infrastructure, and connectivity.
The event also saw the unveiling of Trade AI Advisor (TAIA), the world’s first generative AI tool designed to help businesses navigate complex trade rules and improve free trade agreement compliance. TAIA provides AI-powered, actionable guidance, reflecting SBF’s commitment to strengthening enterprise capabilities, fostering public-private collaboration, and boosting Singapore’s global trade competitiveness.
For early access to TAIA or tailored guidance on tariff strategies, contact the CFOTI team at [email protected]
The SBF National Business Survey 2025 – Manpower & Wages Edition reveals rising caution among Singapore businesses, particularly SMEs, as economic headwinds drive wage freezes and restrained hiring. Escalating manpower costs and persistent upskilling gaps remain top challenges, with firms urging more support for skills-based hiring and training. While most intend to raise wages for lower-wage workers, slower adoption of the Progressive Wage Model highlights ongoing cost pressures and the resilience needed for sustainable growth.
The Ghana–Singapore Business Dialogue, graced by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, brought together over 50 Singapore company representatives. Ghana’s shared traits with Singapore—English-speaking, a common law system, and a history as a former British colony—form a strong foundation for collaboration. These synergies position both nations to deepen business linkages, expand market access, and drive growth, with Singapore firms well-placed to tap Africa’s dynamic opportunities through Ghana’s role as a strategic gateway.
At SBF’s “Shaping a Socially Sustainable Future for Businesses in Singapore” event with KPMG, close to 100 leaders explored how businesses can drive meaningful social impact. Key takeaways included the need to secure leadership buy-in early, align motivators to overcome resource constraints, and embrace corporate volunteering to boost engagement, reputation, and impact. SBF’s new VolunteerInc. programme will help companies embed volunteering into business strategy—aligning missions, matching opportunities, and creating lasting social value.
The SGC invites you to experience German Week, from 28 September to 3 October! Discover German products, services, innovations, and technologies through exclusive ‘open house’ events with company visits, presentations, and interactive experiences. Enjoy cultural showcases, join a forum on AI, and network with industry leaders. Register for the different events and open houses by 18 September to secure your spot!
Join 400+ business leaders and changemakers at Singapore’s premier corporate sustainability event. Learn from top speakers, spark ideas, and connect with industry leaders shaping a resilient and sustainable future.
[19 September 2025]
Sustainability Reporting For Businesses : Benchmarks, Frameworks, Practices
[22 September 2025]
[22 September 2025]
Winning Government (Procurement) Tenders: Strategy and Persuasive Writing
[22 September 2025]
Eyeing Asia : Employment Law In Malaysia
[23 September 2025]
Strategic Career Planning in a Transforming Workforce
[25 September 2025]
Masterclass: Statutory and Annual Compliance for Singapore Businesses *New!*
8.45 am to 6.00 pm
8.45 am to 5.00 pm
Closed on Weekends and
Public Holidays
8.45 am to 6.00 pm
8.45 am to 5.00 pm
Closed on Weekends and
Public Holidays