Singapore’s semiconductor industry has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years, positioning itself as a key player in the global market.
The Lion City is now a hub for semiconductor manufacturing, attracting major companies and fostering a diverse ecosystem. Singapore’s semiconductor industry is characterised by a collaborative ecosystem where local enterprises partner with global firms, enhancing their capabilities and resilience. Year after year, it has been ramping up its capabilities, becoming a pivotal player in the global semiconductor industry.
In this article, we explore reasons why the Singapore semiconductor industry has been the right move forward – and why it makes a convincing argument for overseas firms to expand here.
Key Takeaways
- Over the past decade, Singapore’s semiconductor industry has grown at a CAGR of 11%, and as of 2023, it was the city-state’s biggest manufacturing segment, providing 7% of its GDP.
- Singapore is home to 14 world-renowned international semiconductor companies, which includes 9 of the world’s 15 best semiconductor firms.
Singapore’s Prime Location for Semiconductor Companies
Singapore’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it an attractive destination for semiconductor companies. Nestled at the crossroads of major global trade routes, Singapore offers unparalleled access to key markets such as China, India, and Indonesia. This prime geographic position allows semiconductor companies to tap into a vast customer base with ease.
Moreover, Singapore boasts world-class air and sea logistics, ensuring seamless connectivity for transporting semiconductor products across the region and the globe. The country’s efficient logistics infrastructure enables companies to establish robust supply chains and streamline their operations. For semiconductor companies looking to expand their footprint in Asia, Singapore’s prime location and superior logistics make it an ideal choice.
A Diverse Ecosystem In a Vibrant Semiconductor Industry
Singapore’s semiconductor industry boasts a diverse mix of global giants and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that span the entire semiconductor value chain.
This includes major chip multinationals like Micron, TSMC, Marvell Technology, GlobalFoundries, United Microelectronics Corporation, and Siltronic. It also has home-grown SMEs that provide design, prototyping, production, and testing services for semiconductors.
The semiconductor industry accounts for almost 7% of Singapore’s gross domestic product (GDP), a testament to the significant role it plays in the country’s economy.
As part of its ambitions to expand the manufacturing sector by 50% by 2030, Singapore aims to further grow its electronics sector, with the semiconductor industry as its backbone.
Government Support and Incentives
The Singaporean government has been a steadfast supporter of the semiconductor industry, implementing various initiatives to foster its growth. Between 2021 and 2025, the government has committed approximately S$18 billion (US$13.6 billion) to bolster research, development, and innovation within the semiconductor sector. This substantial investment underscores the government’s dedication to nurturing a vibrant semiconductor industry.
The funds are allocated for R&D grants, infrastructure development, and tax incentives, providing a comprehensive support system for semiconductor companies. Notable incentives include the Refundable Investment Credit (RIC) and the Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS), which offer significant financial benefits to companies investing in the sector. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to creating a favorable business environment, making Singapore an attractive destination for semiconductor companies.
Attractive Investment Environments
Singapore’s political stability sets it apart from other countries in the region, making it an attractive destination for any semiconductor company looking to diversify its manufacturing bases and supply chains amidst growing geopolitical tensions.
Singapore’s favourable tax and regulatory environment, investment incentives, and competitive logistics costs have made it an appealing destination for high-value-added and advanced manufacturing investments. Significant financial commitments towards advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes and technologies are driving growth in various markets such as automotive and 5G mobility.
Competitive Capabilities
Singapore has established itself as a leader in wafer fabrication, assembly, and testing, playing a crucial role in the production of integrated circuits within its expansive semiconductor ecosystem.
This competitive edge allows the country to capitalise on shifts towards Southeast Asia and attract investments from big players in the industry.
Singapore accounts for approximately 11% of the global semiconductor market share, and about one-fifth of global semiconductor equipment is manufactured here.
The country is also home to several major semiconductor equipment suppliers, further strengthening its position in the industry.
Intellectual Property Protection
Intellectual property (IP) protection is crucial for semiconductor companies to safeguard their innovations and maintain their competitive edge.
Singapore is considered “safe” from an IP perspective, offering a secure environment for these companies to operate and collaborate.
Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association
The Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) is a pivotal entity championing the interests of Singapore’s microelectronics devices sector. Established in 2004 as the Microelectronics Industry Development Association of Singapore (MIDAS), SSIA has since expanded its scope to encompass a broader spectrum of companies within the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing ecosystem.
SSIA’s mission is to unite the semiconductor industry in Singapore and beyond, providing a platform for industry leaders to share their insights and experiences. The association focuses on promoting emerging technologies and fostering collaborative initiatives to drive growth and innovation. By bringing together key stakeholders, SSIA plays a crucial role in advancing Singapore’s semiconductor industry and ensuring its continued success on the global stage.
Local Industry Development and Collaboration in Semiconductor Manufacturing
The Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) plays an essential role in nurturing local SMEs in the sector.
With around 200 members, 70% of which are home-grown companies, SSIA helps create opportunities for collaboration and learning between local companies and multinational corporations (MNCs).
A significant example of such collaboration is the joint venture between Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation and NXP Semiconductors. This partnership, valued at approximately US$7.8 billion, aims to establish a substantial semiconductor wafer manufacturing facility in Singapore.
The facility will produce advanced 300-millimeter analog mixed signal wafers for various markets, including automotive, industrial, consumer, and mobile devices. VisionPower Semiconductor Manufacturing Company is also involved in this venture, with production expected to start in 2027.
Singapore’s local semiconductor companies like AEM Holdings have established strong partnerships with global giants like Intel.
These collaborations contribute to the growth and development of Singapore’s semiconductor industry and help local firms build their capabilities and expertise.
Growing Workforce and Talent Development
The semiconductor industry employs over 33,000 people in Singapore. With new investments on the horizon, it is expected to create at least another 2,000 jobs in the next three to five years.
This growing workforce highlights the industry’s significance in Singapore’s economy and its potential for further expansion, especially with the increasing demand for semiconductors in emerging sectors like electric vehicles.
To keep up with the semiconductor industry’s rapid growth, Singapore needs to expand its pool of skilled workers, so the SSIA has been working on raising awareness about the industry and attracting younger talent.
In fact, during the SSIA-organised Electronics Industry Day, a new Semiconductor Active Youth programme was launched. This programme meets the SSIA’s top priority of building a strong talent pipeline in the electronics sector.
Under this programme, leaders of major companies such as AMD and GlobalFoundries will hold one-on-one mentoring sessions with chosen youth ambassadors.
The SSIA and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) also signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration.
Continuing education and training are crucial to updating the current workforce, ensuring that they are well-equipped to meet the industry’s evolving demands.
Related Read: What is the X Factor That Makes Singapore a Global Talent Hub? »
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the impressive growth of the semiconductor industry in Singapore, several challenges need to be addressed. One significant challenge is the increasing competition from other countries in the region, such as Malaysia and Thailand. Additionally, the industry faces hurdles related to talent development and retention.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. The industry can leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and advanced substrate technologies, to drive semiconductor innovation and maintain a competitive edge. The government’s support and incentives provide further opportunities for companies to invest in research and development, talent development, and international collaboration.
Overall, the semiconductor industry in Singapore is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation. The country’s favorable business environment, highly skilled workforce, and robust government support create a thriving landscape for semiconductor companies to flourish.
Moving Forward
In the future, companies that set up or expand their semiconductor businesses in Singapore can expect a supportive ecosystem and numerous growth opportunities.
The country’s political stability, business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, and strong government backing will continue to make it an attractive destination for semiconductor investments.
As Singapore remains committed to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and embracing Industry 4.0 and sustainability, it is up for offering a thriving landscape for new and existing semiconductor companies.
By choosing to establish or expand their operations in Singapore, businesses can tap into a robust and dynamic ecosystem to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-evolving global semiconductor market.
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FAQs about Singapore's Semiconductor Industry
What is the outlook for the semiconductor industry in Singapore?
- The semiconductor industry will reach USD49.06 billion in 2025. Integrated Circuits leads the market by USD46.42 billion. The revenue is set to grow from 2025-2029 to 9.65% which has a market volume of USD70.9 billion by 2029.
How much of Singapore's GDP is semiconductor?
- Singapore's semiconductor sector generated over USD101 billion in 2023, contributing to the country's electronics manufacturing output. The sector now contributes to 7% of Singapore's GDP, showcasing its importance to the national economy.
Is Singapore the world's leading producer of semiconductors?
- Singapore is one of the leading producers of semiconductors which account for 10% of all chips produced worldwide and 20% of global semiconductor equipment production.
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