NTUC ‘closely monitoring’ impact of US tariffs, will ensure workers continue to receive support
Union membership has exceeded 1.4 million; PMETs form nearly two-thirds of the workforce
[SINGAPORE] The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is “closely monitoring” the impact of the recent tariffs announced by the US and the retaliatory tariffs by other countries, which it said was “likely to disrupt” global supply chains and investment flows.
In a statement on Sunday (Apr 20), the labour movement said that Singapore’s 58 unions and the 27 career and job services touchpoints are “ready to respond” to support the needs of workers.
NTUC said it will continue working closely with its tripartite partners as part of the newly formed Economic Resilience Taskforce chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, to “ensure that workers are supported even amid growing uncertainty”.
“Singapore is not immune to the impact of intensifying global trade tensions,” NTUC said, adding that such tariff wars can have “significant downstream effects” that put the competitiveness of businesses and job security of workers at risk, particularly in export-reliant sectors.
Labour chief Ng Chee Meng said: “Amid the uncertainties brought about by global trade and tariff wars, NTUC will strengthen efforts and work with tripartite partners to enhance job security for workers; and support Singapore’s continued ability to attract foreign investments.”
Ahead of the May Day celebrations on May 1, the labour movement also announced on Sunday that its union membership has exceeded the 1.4 million mark.
The statement noted that Singapore’s workforce is “more dynamic” with nearly two-in-three workers (63.7 per cent) being professionals, managers, executives and technicians today – up from 53.5 per cent in 2014. About three in 10 workers (28.2 per cent) in the resident labour force are aged 55 and older, up from 22.3 per cent in 2014.
“These shifts reflect the evolving needs of the workforce. NTUC is acutely aware of these shifts and has been dedicated to supporting all worker segments through targeted programmes and initiatives,” it added.
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