Written reply to PQ on skills transfer roadmaps by companies

Question

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song:To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether companies receiving more than $5 million in Government grants or tax subsidies are required to submit a skills transfer roadmap outlining how they will leverage the funding to upskill locals with specific targets; (b) whether future tranches of grant disbursements will be contingent on achievement of skills transfer milestones; and (c) if not, whether there are any terms and conditions on the grants that will ensure skills transfer to Singaporean workers.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1. Business grants and tax incentives disbursed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry are designed to support companies that undertake specific projects or activities to upgrade, grow and transform their businesses. These can include the development of new capabilities, expansions, or the establishment of new businesses in Singapore. Where relevant and on a case-by-case basis, the agencies may include factors such as creation of local employment and training opportunities as part of the consideration.

2. Separately, the Government invests significantly to support our businesses and workers to upskill and reskill, and administers various programmes for this purpose. The Member may refer to the reply to Question No. 105 for the sitting on 7 May 2024 for more details.