Singapore is the world’s most competitive economy, according to an updated global league table.
It scored 84.8 out of a possible 100, beating the US to the top spot in the rankings of 141 economies.
The US, which topped the charts last year, scored 83.7.
“Singapore improves from an already high base,” the World Economic Forum (WEF) said on Wednesday, adding that the country ranked first for infrastructure – one of the index’s 12 assessment pillars.
Singapore was also number one for two of the index’s other pillars – citizens’ healthy life expectancy years and labour markets.
Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing said on Facebook that the ranking was encouraging as it reflected how strong economic fundamentals here continue to distinguish Singapore from its competitors.
“Nevertheless, as a small and open economy, we cannot afford to take things for granted,” he added.
Singapore must persevere collectively to stay ahead given the current economic uncertainties, he said.
“We must continue to build on our strong fundamentals, improve the capabilities of our enterprises, transform our industries and ensure that our workers are well-equipped with the right skills to stay competitive.”
The report noted that Singapore also scored well because of its financial system, market efficiency and macroeconomic stability.
“Singapore ranks second for the quality of public institutions, behind Finland, but its performance is undermined by limited checks and balances,” the report said.
“Singapore notably ranks 124th on the Freedom of the Press Index – and lack of commitment to sustainability.”
The report added that Singapore will need to promote entrepreneurship and further improve its skills base to become a global innovation hub.
It also noted that the US performed better in domestic competition and trade openness last year.
“Despite an overall weaker performance this year, the US remains one of the most competitive economies in the world. It is still an innovation powerhouse, ranking second on the innovation capability pillar and first in terms of business dynamism . . . and home to one of the most dynamic financial systems in the world.”
Hong Kong rose four spots to third place.
The report said the territory ranks first on four pillars – macroeconomic stability, health, financial system and product market – the most of any economy.
“Hong Kong’s biggest weakness is undoubtedly its limited capability to innovate,” the report said, adding that the region also lags behind Singapore in worker protection.
The Netherlands and Switzerland round up the top five most competitive economies. The Netherlands jumped two spots to fourth place while Switzerland fell one to fifth.
The Global Competitiveness Report series was launched in 1979 to provide an annual assessment of the drivers of productivity and long-term economic growth.
THE STRAITS TIMES (SINGAPORE)
