Singapore looking to tap into China's tech wave to tackle issues like ageing population

CNAAbout 3 min readMar 27, 2025Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts:

  • Singapore-China collaboration
  • Aging population challenges
  • Silver economy
  • AI and Robotics in eldercare
  • Bilateral relations
  • Technological innovation

Singapore's Strategy to Leverage China's Tech Advancements

Singapore aims to collaborate with Chinese tech firms to address shared challenges, particularly those related to an aging population. Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat emphasized the importance of Singaporean companies partnering with Chinese firms that have achieved significant technological breakthroughs. He also encouraged Chinese companies to pilot their innovations in Singapore.

China's Technological Breakthroughs and Applications

China is experiencing rapid advancements in various technological fields, including robotics (humanoid robots), AI, and deep-sea exploration. These advancements are expected to accelerate in the coming years.

Addressing Aging Population Challenges

DPM Heng highlighted that Singapore can learn from China's strategies for managing aging populations, especially in enhancing seniors' access to digital information and platforms. He noted that AI and robotics could play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, but cautioned that their implementation needs careful management.

Singaporean Firms Expanding into China's Silver Economy

Singaporean companies are increasing their presence in China's silver economy, which is projected to reach $4 trillion USD by 2035. In 2024, Singaporean developers launched senior-friendly apartments and a private general hospital (the first wholly owned by a foreign company in China).

Singapore-China Bilateral Relations

DPM Heng met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, where both sides reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between Singapore and China, celebrating 35 years of diplomatic ties. DPM Heng acknowledged Han Zheng's significant contributions to deepening the relationship between the two countries, particularly during their four years co-chairing the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC), including two years during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Continued Bilateral Exchanges and Mutual Understanding

DPM Heng also met with Liu Jianchao, Chinese Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party. They agreed to maintain the momentum of bilateral exchanges and promote greater mutual understanding.

Visits to Medical and Tech Institutions

DPM Heng visited Peking Union Medical College Hospital and Baidu Apollo Park, where he discussed science and technology innovations.

Data and Statistics

  • China's life expectancy reached 79 years, an increase of 1.7 years from 2019.
  • China's silver economy is projected to reach $4 trillion USD by 2035.

Synthesis/Conclusion

Singapore is actively seeking to leverage China's technological advancements, particularly in areas relevant to addressing the challenges of an aging population. This strategy involves fostering collaboration between Singaporean and Chinese companies, encouraging the piloting of Chinese innovations in Singapore, and expanding Singaporean firms' presence in China's growing silver economy. Strong bilateral relations between Singapore and China provide a solid foundation for these collaborations.

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