Singapore to invest $785 million in public AI research through 2030 to boost global competitiveness

Singapore will invest more than Sg$1 billion ($785 million) in public research on artificial intelligence through 2030, as the city-state looks to strengthen its technological capabilities and sharpen its global competitiveness, the government said on Saturday.The funding will be used to set up “world-class” AI research centres, build capabilities to support industrial applications of artificial intelligence, and develop talent through partnerships with overseas researchers and institutions, according to an official statement.Announcing the initiative at an AI research week gala dinner, Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo said the new research centres would focus on “long-term, difficult questions” that can deliver sustained benefits to Singapore.“We expect them to partner actively with others in our local ecosystem and internationally. We also want their research discoveries to be shared openly, to contribute to the global knowledge commons,” Teo said.The investment marks the latest in a series of measures by Singapore to deepen its AI ecosystem. With limited natural resources and a small domestic workforce, the country has increasingly turned to technology to address labour constraints and support economic growth.“Research serves as a key activity driver in our AI efforts, advancing the nation’s deep technical capabilities and ensuring Singapore remains at the forefront of AI innovation,” the ministry said.