NEW YORK, December 29, 2025, 01:53 ET
- Singapore’s Association of Trade and Commerce said SMEs were recognised under its SME 500 Award 2025 programme.
- The group cited global uncertainty, while recent data showed Singapore’s core inflation held at 1.2% in November.
Singapore’s Association of Trade and Commerce said it had recognised small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under its Singapore SME 500 Award 2025 programme, as businesses navigate uneven demand and higher operating costs. 1
The awards matter because Singapore depends heavily on internationally exposed firms and supply chains, and smaller companies often feel swings in global demand first. Recognition programmes are also a way for firms to signal credibility to customers, partners and lenders.
The announcement comes as price pressures have cooled in Singapore compared with the peaks of recent years, offering some relief on costs even as companies remain cautious about 2026. Official data last week showed core inflation was unchanged in November. 2
The trade group said the award recipients were recognised at a presentation ceremony held on Dec. 3 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre. 1
It named three special-category winners: Kelly Oriental Skincare Pte Ltd (Emerging Brand), Finmo Tech Pte Ltd (Best Digital Adopter) and T B C Transportation Pte Ltd (Fast Growing SME). 1
The group also said 56 enterprises were recognised for achieving the award for three consecutive years and beyond. 1
The award, administered by the Association of Trade and Commerce, is aimed at highlighting companies with what it described as strong business fundamentals, management and sustainable growth. It said recipients came from sectors including technology, construction, retail, logistics and professional services. 1
Inflation remains a close watchpoint for smaller firms, which tend to have less pricing power and thinner cash buffers than large corporates.
“Price pressures are not exactly spreading,” said Zavier Wong, a market analyst at eToro, in comments on Singapore’s latest inflation data. 3
Singapore’s core inflation rate — a gauge that strips out private road transport and accommodation costs — was 1.2% year-on-year in November, matching October and coming in below a Reuters-polled median forecast of 1.3%, data showed. Headline inflation was also 1.2%. 2
The trade group said this year’s edition saw an increase in enterprises attaining recognition, which it attributed to stronger business performance and sustained revenue growth. 1
A full list of recipients is available on the SME 500 site, the group said. 1
