New measures include an expanded national breeding programme and fresh hatchery support for the aquaculture sector
Singapore is committing S$70 million (US$55 million) over the next five years to support local farms in expanding production and enhancing capabilities, as part of efforts to strengthen food security amid increasing global uncertainties.
New Phase of Agri-Food Cluster Transformation Fund Announced
The funding, unveiled by Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Zaqy Mohamad, is an extension of the Agri-Food Cluster Transformation (ACT) Fund, now rebranded as ACT Fund 2. Since its launch in April 2021, the ACT Fund has assisted farmers in upgrading operations through technology adoption and equipment purchases. This renewed initiative underscores Singapore’s focus on food resilience as outlined in the Singapore Food Story 2 strategy, which emphasizes four key pillars: diversifying imports, growing local production, stockpiling, and forming global partnerships.
Addressing Heavy Reliance on Imports
With over 90% of its food imported, Singapore is highly vulnerable to supply chain disruptions caused by climate change, disease outbreaks, and geopolitical tensions. Strengthening local food production is therefore a critical priority. While the 30 by 30 initiative successfully boosted local production, its single-pillar focus on local farming left the country exposed to external disruptions. Mr. Zaqy emphasized that a multi-faceted approach is essential for true food supply resilience, even as growing local produce remains a vital component of the strategy.
Enhanced Support for Local Farms
ACT Fund 2, managed by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), will provide co-funding to help farms adopt advanced technologies, improve productivity, and build climate resilience. This initiative is Singapore’s largest-ever industry support scheme for local agriculture. The first ACT Fund tranche, launched in 2021, supported 150 projects across 60 companies, with a low 3% failure rate. Based on industry feedback, the scheme now includes coverage for marketing, branding, and standalone pre- and post-harvest facilities. A new component, the Industry Partnerships for Capability Transformation Grant, will foster collaborations to address shared challenges like limited economies of scale and supply chain inefficiencies.
Focus on Aquaculture and Technology
SFA is also intensifying support for aquaculture through demonstration projects that test overseas farming technologies in Singapore’s tropical marine environment. Successful solutions will be integrated into ACT Fund 2. The national breeding program will expand to include red snappers, while partnerships with overseas breeders will ensure a steady supply of reliable larvae and fingerlings for local farms.
Driving Demand for Local Produce
To ensure the commercial success of local farms, SFA is working to increase demand for their products. The Singapore Agro-Food Enterprises Federation (SAFEF) will broaden its offerings under brands like SG Farmers’ Market to include more vegetable varieties and processed goods such as sauces and canned items. Additionally, new ready-to-eat marine tilapia products under The Straits Fish brand will be introduced in collaboration with TheSeafoodCompany. Partnerships with food and beverage businesses will also promote SG Farmers’ Market products on menus.
Growing the Farm-to-Table Movement
The Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme, which acknowledges food operators sourcing at least 15% of their produce locally, has seen significant growth. As of December 2025, 119 food businesses have joined the initiative, further supporting the commercial viability of local farms.
This multi-pronged approach reflects Singapore’s commitment to building a resilient and sustainable food ecosystem.
