Singapore's total employment increased by 9,400 jobs in the first quarter of 2026. This marks the 18th consecutive month of job growth but represents a slowdown from the 17,700 jobs added in the previous quarter, Q4 2025 [1]. Resident employment growth accelerated to 5,400 in Q1 2026, up from 3,100 in Q4 2025, reflecting stronger gains among Singaporeans and permanent residents [1].
Job vacancies declined slightly to 73,300 in March 2026, mainly driven by a drop in non-PMET (professionals, managers, executives and technicians) roles [1]. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said firms may be focusing on a leaner but more permanent workforce as workers seek greater stability amid uncertain conditions [1].
Retrenchments rose marginally in Q1 2026, concentrated mainly in industries reliant on external demand such as manufacturing [1]. Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng noted that retrenchment levels remain within non-recessionary norms despite the slight increase. He said, "Even amidst these uncertainties, there are some encouraging signs in the labour market," and emphasized that the labour market continued to expand alongside 6% year-on-year economic growth [1].
Employment gains were largely concentrated in administrative and support services, transportation, and storage sectors. However, resident employment among self-employed persons declined in financial and insurance services, while employment within financial institutions actually grew [1].
The MOM warned that amid geopolitical tensions and the impact of AI technologies, firms are likely to adopt a cautious approach towards hiring and wage increases in the near term [1]. The ministry said, "Firms may become more cautious in hiring and raising salaries, given current uncertainties and geopolitical tensions."
The quarterly Labour Market Report detailing these figures was released by the Ministry of Manpower on June 15, 2026 [1].
