Singapore jobs

Overall, retrenchments in Q4 “remained low and within non-recessionary norms”, says MOM.

PMET layoffs, vacancies suggest ongoing restructuring; no broad-based displacement by AI: MOM

Singapore’s labour market to keep expanding in 2026, after more job vacancies and higher re-entry rate in Q4

Industry watchers and players alike acknowledge the need to support local workers, but they are worried about the impact of higher costs.

F&B industry mulls higher menu prices, offshoring and closures with wages set to rise

Companies may get co-funding support under a government scheme, but not all businesses will qualify

Firms pay differing levy rates depending on their dependency ratio utilisation – the share of Work Permit holders in their workforce.

Work Permit levy hikes in 2028 could drive SMEs to automate, upskill workers: industry players

Among SMEs, these levy increases are likely to have a greater impact than other manpower-related changes unveiled in the recent Budget

Indeed says Singapore’s job market is “incredibly tight”, indicating that demand for labour remains high relative to the available workforce.

Singapore job postings hit 7-month high as AI demand surges: jobs site Indeed

Nearly a quarter of postings on the employment website now mention artificial intelligence

Over 50 internship opportunities have been committed to date; roles offered cover asset management, commercial leasing, fintech and project development, among others. 

Redas, NUS tie up to offer trainee, internship programme for real estate talent pipeline

It will provide students with exposure to real estate careers in both the public and private sectors

Budget 2026 is an estimated S$154.7 billion fiscal plan with an S$8.5 billion surplus, or about 1% of GDP.
BRUNCH

An in-depth look at 5 of Singapore’s post-election Budgets

Budget 2026 follows the first general election helmed by Singapore’s fourth-generation leadership. How does it compare with other Budgets at the start of a government term?

SME leaders note that clearer carbon tax guidance and the ability to pay for AI tools on a fractional basis could help businesses manage costs.

SMEs ‘screaming for help’, panellists say, as they urge Budget support on costs and overseas push

Enhanced internationalisation schemes, greater access to government financing facilities among measures that could make a difference

Deeper automation and AI deployment could mean fewer workers are needed in some firms, particularly at the entry level.

ESR’s push for AI welcomed by observers, but they say it could put the heat on fresh grads

Market watchers, reacting to the ideas the Economic Strategic Review panels have put forward, say the heavier use of artificial intelligence must be managed

The ESR committees focus on global competitiveness, technology, economic restructuring, among others
SINGAPORE BUDGET 2026

Driving growth, creating jobs: What are the Economic Strategy Review’s 7 recommendations?

These are crafted from suggestions by businesses and workers over 60 engagements, events and company visits since August