Written Answer to PQ on retrenchments and support measures

NOTICE PAPER NO. 1002 OF 2026 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 10 SEP 2026
QUESTION NO. *2524 FOR ORAL ANSWER

MP: Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry has observed an increase in retrenchments in Singapore's e-commerce and tech-enabled sectors; (b) what new or enhanced support measures are being considered for affected workers whose skills may not transfer easily to other industries; and (c) whether companies undertaking regional retrenchments that affect Singapore-based employees are required to report about the support offered to affected local workers.

Answer:

1. In the past four quarters, the number of retrenchments in Singapore's e-commerce and tech-enabled sectors fluctuated within the range of 480 to 580, below the peaks observed in 2023 and 2024. Retrenchments were driven largely by business reorganisation or restructuring. The 6-month re-entry rate among retrenched residents within these sectors improved, from 53% in 4Q 2025 to 61% in 1Q 2026.

2. SWDA offers a suite of programmes to support retrenched workers to re-enter employment. In particular, jobseekers who require significant reskilling can participate in Career Conversion Programmes (CCPs), the Mid-Career Pathways Programme (MCPP) and the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programmes (SCTP). For example, the CCPs provide employers with up to 90% salary support to train mid-career career switchers who may not have the full set of skills required to take up new roles immediately. SWDA also works closely with sector agencies and industry to refresh the jobs and opportunities offered through these programmes.

3. Companies undertaking regional retrenchments that affect Singapore-based employees are required to declare the support provided to affected workers as part of the Mandatory Retrenchment Notification (MRN).