Johor-Singapore SEZ Offers Chance to Strengthen Supply Chains: DPM Gan

According to Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) offers businesses a chance to enhance their supply chains in the face of uncertainty from tariffs.

Mr. Gan, who additionally serves as the Minister for Trade and Industry, was presenting his keynote speech at a business and investment forum in Johor, Malaysia’s southern state, on April 21, an occasion he referred to as “both important and timely” in light of increasing global protectionism.

He observed that rising tensions between the US and China have resulted in a series of reciprocal tariffs, essentially stifling trade between the two largest economies globally.

These changes will greatly affect companies in Singapore and Malaysia, many of which are integrated into the production and supply chains of both the US and China

“The JS-SEZ presents an opportunity for businesses to explore how to ‘strengthen (their) supply chains’, so that they can better respond to the volatilities and continue to grow their businesses,” he said.

The JS-SEZ intends to facilitate cross-border commerce and investment in vital areas including advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology, and the digital economy.

“The JS-SEZ builds on the strong, longstanding economic partnership between Malaysia and Singapore to open a new avenue, a new frontier of opportunities for businesses,” Mr Gan said.

Specifically, in Singapore, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, along with Enterprise Singapore and the Economic Development Board, has set up a collaborative project office to assist local companies interested in growing their presence and activities in the JS-SEZ. This will enhance the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre-Johor set up by Malaysia.