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Singapore Businesses Cite Rising Costs as Top Concern

WireByte Staff · August 7, 2026

A survey by the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry reveals that 71.8% of respondents identify rising business costs as their main concern, amidst geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty. This sentiment is reflected in cautious business prospects, with only 20% of respondents optimistic about the outlook.

Key points

  • The Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry conducted a survey that found 71.8% of respondents citing rising business costs as their top concern.
  • Geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty are contributing to this sentiment, with respondents identifying higher operating costs, market uncertainty, weaker demand, and supply chain disruptions as main risks.
  • Only 20% of respondents were optimistic about business prospects, while 34% were pessimistic, and 38% were neutral.
  • Despite this, 78% of respondents expect to remain profitable, although more than half anticipate lower profits than last year.

A recent survey conducted by the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry has shed light on the concerns of Singapore businesses. The survey, which polled a number of respondents, found that rising business costs are the top concern for 71.8% of respondents. This is not surprising, given the current geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has added to business uncertainty, with respondents identifying higher operating costs, market uncertainty, weaker demand, and supply chain disruptions as the main risks. This has led to a cautious outlook, with only 20% of respondents optimistic about business prospects. In contrast, 34% were pessimistic, and 38% were neutral.

Despite this, the survey found that 78% of respondents expect to remain profitable, although more than half anticipate lower profits than last year. This suggests that while businesses are cautious, they are still optimistic about their ability to remain profitable.

The survey also touched on the topic of artificial intelligence, with 45% of respondents saying they were experimenting with off-the-shelf AI tools. However, limited expertise and implementation costs remain key barriers to adoption.

Overall, the survey provides a snapshot of the concerns and sentiments of Singapore businesses. It highlights the need for businesses to be cautious and adapt to the current economic uncertainty.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.