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Singapore Manufacturing Federation to develop AI consultancy, encourages firms to enter new markets amid tariff risks

Most SMEs automate only about 25% of their processes, which is too low: industry body’s president

Low Youjin
Published Wed, Aug 27, 2025 · 08:18 PM
    • SMF president Lennon Tan says many SMEs’ adoption of AI "doesn't go beyond ChatGPT”, while others assume adoption is costly and complex.
    • SMF president Lennon Tan says many SMEs’ adoption of AI "doesn't go beyond ChatGPT”, while others assume adoption is costly and complex. PHOTO: TAY CHU YI, BT

    [SINGAPORE] To make artificial intelligence (AI) less intimidating, the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) is working on a consultancy service for its members.

    For an accessible fee, advisers will help companies identify gaps in their processes where AI can be applied, and adopt affordable solutions.

    “The main problem our members face (when it comes to AI adoption) is the lack of expertise, not knowing what’s out there, or how to use it,” said SMF president Lennon Tan in an interview with The Business Times, not long after Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the importance of AI in his National Day Rally speech.

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