Singapore and India reaffirmed their strong relationship and explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation during the third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) held in New Delhi on Wednesday (Aug 13). Following the meeting, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said that the six-member delegation from Singapore held constructive discussions with Indian ministers, identifying potential collaboration in areas such as sustainability, digitalisation, skills development, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity.

DPM Gan noted significant interest from Singaporean firms in building a joint semiconductor ecosystem with India to strengthen supply chains. He explained that semiconductor production involves long and complex global supply chains, with components often manufactured in different locations. Diversifying these supply chains, he said, would reduce vulnerability to disruptions such as those caused by US tariffs. He also mentioned the pharmaceutical sector, which has similarly intricate supply chains.

According to him, both local companies and multinational corporations in Singapore are eager to explore integration and investment opportunities in India, calling the creation of a joint semiconductor ecosystem a “win-win” for both nations—boosting resilience for Singapore’s industry while generating investment and jobs for India.

On sustainability, both countries discussed the development of eco-friendly industrial parks in India, in line with efforts to address climate change and promote a low-carbon future. These parks would focus on recycling, waste management, and the use of greener energy sources over fossil fuels. DPM Gan added that discussions with the Indian government are ongoing to ensure the project’s success, including plans to invite proposals from interested stakeholders.

Singapore’s delegation included senior ministers across key portfolios such as foreign affairs, home affairs, manpower, digital development, and transport. India’s delegation featured ministers overseeing finance, foreign affairs, commerce, industry, and electronics. Additionally, six business leaders from Singapore and 10 from India attended the ISMR, putting forward proposals to strengthen business collaboration amid current global economic uncertainties.