Written reply to PQ on Providing grant support for research and development expenses incurred in Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone

Question:

Dr Neo Kok Beng: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) whether the Government will provide grant support for specific research and development expenses incurred in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), such as testing and trials that cannot be done or are not suitable to be done in Singapore.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), Dr Tan See Leng

1. The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) enables companies to tap on the complementary strengths of both Singapore and Johor to jointly attract investments.

2. Enterprises establishing or expanding operations in the JS-SEZ can benefit from existing Government schemes, such as the Enterprise Development Grant, that support Singapore companies in pursuing new market opportunities and transforming their businesses. Support for overseas R&D activities, such as testing and trials, will be considered against the company's overall R&D roadmap and business objectives, with clear pathways for capabilities and economic value to accrue back to Singapore.

3. The Government will continue to review our suite of enterprise support measures, including for R&D, to ensure they continue to meet businesses' needs while supporting value creation in Singapore.