Singapore’s total employment climbed by 24,800 in the third quarter of 2025, driven mainly by manufacturing and construction. According to preliminary figures from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), this marks a strong rebound from the 10,400 increase recorded in the second quarter. Both resident and non-resident employment grew during this period, reflecting ongoing recovery and labour demand across multiple sectors.
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Growth Trends in Employment
The third quarter saw Singapore’s total employment perform better than expected, with non-resident workers contributing significantly. The government attributed this to increased demand for work permit holders in construction and manufacturing. Resident employment also rose, though at a slower pace, as the participation rate among locals remains high.
Sector-Wise Performance
Employment growth varied across key industries. The manufacturing sector recorded an increase of 5,400 jobs in Q3, compared to 900 in Q2. The construction sector saw an even stronger expansion, adding 13,700 positions, up from 5,800 in the previous quarter. These are among the largest quarterly increases since late 2022, signaling continued momentum in infrastructure and production activities.
Employment by Sector, Q3 2025
| Sector | Q3 Employment Growth | Q2 Employment Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | 5,400 | 900 |
| Construction | 13,700 | 5,800 |
| Services (excl. domestic workers) | 5,200 | 3,700 |
| Total Employment | 24,800 | 10,400 |
Key Highlights from the MOM Report
- Total employment rose by 24,800 in Q3 2025
- Non-resident employment led by construction and manufacturing sectors
- Resident employment concentrated in healthcare, social, and financial services
- Retrenchments stood at 3,500, slightly lower than the previous quarter
- Unemployment rates remained stable at around 2 to 3 percent
Resident Employment and Services Sector Growth
Resident employment continued to expand, particularly in the services sector, which added 5,200 jobs in Q3. Health and social services contributed significantly to this growth, followed by financial services. These gains represent the strongest increase in resident employment since the third quarter of 2024, underscoring the steady recovery in people-oriented industries.
Retrenchment and Unemployment Overview
Retrenchments remained low, with 3,500 workers laid off in Q3, slightly below the 3,540 recorded in Q2. Most retrenchments occurred in the services sector, while manufacturing and construction saw declines in layoffs. The overall unemployment rate stood at 2 percent, with resident unemployment at 2.8 percent and citizen unemployment stable at 3 percent. MOM noted these levels remain within the normal non-recessionary range.
Economic Factors Supporting Job Growth
Singapore’s gross domestic product grew by 2.9 percent in the third quarter, slightly exceeding forecasts. The economy’s resilience supported job creation despite global challenges. However, outward-oriented sectors such as information, communications, and professional services saw muted employment gains due to global trade uncertainties.
Hiring and Wage Expectations for Q4
Looking ahead, MOM’s business surveys suggest that hiring sentiment will remain positive but uneven across sectors. Wage growth is expected to slow as companies adapt to cost pressures. Firms in financial and information services are showing reduced willingness to raise pay, while construction and essential services may continue moderate hiring into the next quarter.
Future Employment Outlook
Overall employment growth in Singapore is likely to remain steady but sector-dependent. The government anticipates continued strength in infrastructure and service-related jobs, while export-oriented sectors may face slower momentum. Policies focused on reskilling and workforce adaptation will remain crucial to sustaining balanced growth.
FAQ
- What was Singapore’s total employment growth in Q3 2025?
Total employment rose by 24,800 in the third quarter of 2025, led by gains in manufacturing and construction. - Which sectors added the most jobs?
The construction sector saw an increase of 13,700 jobs, followed by manufacturing with 5,400 new positions. - What were the unemployment rates in Q3 2025?
The overall unemployment rate was 2 percent, with resident unemployment at 2.8 percent and citizen unemployment at 3 percent. - How many retrenchments were recorded?
There were 3,500 retrenchments in Q3 2025, slightly lower than the previous quarter’s 3,540. - What is the employment outlook for the next quarter?
MOM expects continued but uneven job growth across sectors, with hiring likely to remain strongest in construction and essential services.
