Singapore Adds 27,700 Jobs as Retrenchments Rise
Singapore's labour market expanded in the third quarter of 2026, but rising layoffs and uneven sector performance highlight continued uncertainty for employers and workers.
Singapore's labour market added 27,700 jobs in the third quarter of 2026, even as retrenchments increased to their highest third-quarter level since 2020, according to preliminary figures released by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on 30 October.
Employment growth accelerated from 11,400 in the previous quarter and exceeded the 25,100 increase recorded during the same period in 2025. Both resident and non-resident employment expanded, although hiring conditions remained uneven across industries.
Retrenchments Reach 4,800
The number of retrenchments rose to 4,800 during the quarter, compared with 4,620 in the second quarter. This marked the highest third-quarter figure since 2020, when 9,120 workers were retrenched.
Despite the increase in absolute numbers, the retrenchment incidence remained unchanged at 2.0 per 1,000 employees.
Business reorganisation continued to be the main reason for layoffs, with retrenchments remaining elevated in selected sectors exposed to international trade and economic uncertainty.
Employment Growth Remains Uneven
Resident employment growth was primarily supported by essential and public services, while non-resident employment accounted for most of the overall increase, particularly in construction and manufacturing.
Singapore's overall unemployment rate remained at 2.0% in September. However, resident unemployment increased slightly to 3.0%, while citizen unemployment reached 3.1%.
The figures suggest that continued job creation has not eliminated workforce pressures, particularly in industries undergoing restructuring.
Employers Balance Hiring and Restructuring
MOM reported improvements in hiring and wage expectations during September, although employers remained cautious amid economic uncertainty.
For organisations, the figures highlight the importance of workforce planning, employee communication and support during periods of restructuring.
While Singapore continues to generate employment opportunities, the simultaneous rise in retrenchments underscores the need to help affected workers navigate career transitions and develop skills suited to changing labour market demands.
The ministry's preliminary findings indicate a growing workforce, but one experiencing differing conditions across sectors.
Sources: Singapore Ministry of Manpower; MOM
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