Business leaders and trade experts gathered at Orchard Hotel Singapore to discuss responses to U.S. tariffs, alongside the launch of the Centre for the Future of Trade & Investment Partnership.
SINGAPORE, 9 SEPTEMBER 2025 – The seminar “Navigating U.S. Tariffs: Adapt and Advance” was held at Orchard Hotel Singapore, bringing together senior executives, trade specialists and policymakers to examine the continued impact of U.S. reciprocal tariffs. The event focused on practical measures businesses are adopting to manage risks, adjust supply chains, and identify new opportunities amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Organised under the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce (SERT), the seminar provided participants with actionable insights on mitigating tariff-related challenges. Discussions highlighted how companies are diversifying supply chains, exploring alternative markets, and leveraging advisory services to respond to rising costs and evolving regulations.
The seminar also marked the official launch of the Centre for the Future of Trade & Investment (CFOTI) Partnership, a multi-sectoral initiative involving partners from finance, logistics, advisory, and legal services. Key founding partners include Pacific International Alliance, DBS Bank, DHL Express, BWC Singapore, Raja Andan and the Masip Foundation, with support from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Enterprise Singapore. The partnership aims to strengthen public-private collaboration in supporting businesses navigating complex trade environments.
In his remarks, Mr Gan Seow Kee, Chairman of CFOTI, underlined the importance of building resilience in the face of protectionist trade measures. He noted that Singapore, as a highly trade-dependent economy, faces significant challenges from global tariff shifts and rising regulatory complexity. “Amid rising trade complexities and shifting global policies, it is essential for businesses to have access to clear guidance and reliable support. Through the CFOTI Partnership, we aim to provide companies with the tools, insights, and networks they need to adapt effectively while continuing to identify growth opportunities,” Mr Gan said.
Among the new initiatives unveiled was the Trade AI Advisor (TAIA), a generative AI-powered platform designed to provide businesses with tailored guidance on trade rules, tariff regimes and rules of origin. TAIA will initially be piloted with selected users before being rolled out more widely to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In addition, CFOTI announced plans to launch the erative AI-powered plTrade and Investment Competency Framework by the end of the year, in collaboration with industry, government and academic partners.
Through initiatives such as TAIA and sector-wide partnerships, CFOTI seeks to equip businesses with tools and intelligence to interpret trade developments, assess their implications, and plan ahead with confidence. The seminar reinforced Singapore’s ongoing efforts to support its business community in adapting to an evolving trade landscape while preparing for long-term growth.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter
