How Singapore is riding biomedical exports for the next wave of growth.

Singapore’s maritime sector has grown considerably from its humble beginnings as a regional ship repair and building centre. Today, it is a major offshore and marine centre with a thriving ecosystem of marine support industries. Here, we look at the Republic’s marine equipment sector and how it has grown to complement this international maritime hub.  

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Leading Offshore and Marine Industry Supported by an Ecosystem of Marine Equipment and Services  

Building on its early strengths as a regional ship repair and building centre, Singapore has grown into a leader in the offshore and marine sector. Today, the Republic leads the way as a ship repair and conversion centre, on top on being the market leader for the building of jack-up rigs and conversion of FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) units. 
 
This success would not have been possible without the powerful community of marine supporting industries that has risen to complement it. The Republic boasts of one of the highest concentrations of maritime companies in the world, with a range of specialists in instrumentation, electronic equipment repairs, turbocharger reconditioning, refrigeration and air-conditioning maintenance as well as engine manufacturers, propeller makers and navigational equipment suppliers. This also complements the in-house design and production capabilities of local and international shipyards and offshore and marine firms.
 

Full Spectrum of Marine Support Partners Add to Singapore’s Competitive Advantage as a Leading Maritime Hub  

Companies in the marine support sector also span the spectrum from small and medium scale workshops to comprehensive factory facilities. All in all, these companies provide the full spectrum of marine equipment and services required for the fulfilment of work from shipyards and ship owners all around the world. In addition, the ability to offer these services in one convenient location has endeared Singapore to industry players requiring speed and reliability for their projects.
 
One other aspect to point out is that the local marine equipment sector also benefits from the Republic’s strengths as an advanced manufacturing hub. With its strong base in precision engineering – a core enabler for the manufacture of complex equipment – Singapore has risen to become the leading location in the region for the production of oil and gas equipment.
 

Singapore – An Ideal Destination for Maritime Firms Looking to Tap into Asia Pacific Growth Opportunities 

While the outlook for the offshore and marine sector is currently cloudy due to the global economic slowdown and record-low oil prices, the long term prognosis for Singapore is much more sanguine. For one, Singapore is located at the heart of the Asia Pacific region, which is widely seen as the main driver for global economic growth for many years to come. The rapid urbanisation and growing middle class in many developing countries in the region will spur demand for goods and services and energy exploration. 
 
It is with the view towards being closer to their potential markets that has prompted many global offshore and marine companies to establish and scale up their operations in Singapore. One of those on this list is global power systems giant Rolls Royce. In 2011, the company elected to shift the global headquarters for its marine business to Singapore in a bid to capitalise on the Asia Pacific growth story.
 
Other leading marine equipment makers have also followed suit to ride on commercial shipbuilding demand in the region, establishing their manufacturing plants in Singapore to be closer to markets.
Singapore Leveraging on Maritime Technologies Research & Development to Bolster Future Competitive Advantage 
 
Despite its strong position in the maritime sector, Singapore is not content to rest on its laurels. Instead, the Republic has been looking to technology to further reinforce its competitive position in the offshore and marine sector. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has partnered with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), working on research and development projects for maritime technologies.
 
The five-year partnership is an exciting development which allows the MPA to tap on the full capabilities of all research institutes under A*STAR's Science and Engineering Research Council. The scope of research includes the development of new maritime communications technologies (satellite, terrestrial, and wireless modes of communication), robotic capabilities supporting the marine industry, and environment technology (consisting of applied research into marine sustainability, renewable energy, and the use of emission reduction technology in ports in terms of infrastructure, processes, equipment and vessels). 
 

Making Sail, Powering Forward 

Looking to the future, Singapore will continue evolving to ensure its offshore and marine industry remains a global leader, and its marine support sector remains relevant to the changing times. Despite the current challenging conditions, there is still much to look forward for the industry in the years to come.  
 
 

The last decade has seen the rise of green technology. Real estate developers are now turning their sights onto building green and eco-friendly buildings and this looks set to become the norm, not only in Singapore, but throughout the world. 

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The “Green Architecture” movement has been gaining momentum and it doesn’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. The objective of green architecture, or green design, is to reduce the harmful effects of building construction on our health and the natural environment. Some of the ways in which the architect will endeavour to meet green standards is by taking into consideration the materials used, development space and energy consumption and efficiency. This has forever changed the way buildings are now being designed, built and run.

Setting the Benchmark

As we move towards building green and sustainable buildings, certain standards and criteria have to be met before the building is deemed as a green building. In the US, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) has introduced the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) standards, a set of criteria that scores buildings on their design and efficiency. In Singapore, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) introduced the BCA Green Mark Scheme in 2005. The scheme was aimed at Singapore’s construction industry to steer them towards more environmentally-friendly buildings. Achieving the BCA Green Mark indicates that the company or developer has successfully carried out good construction practices in environmental design and performances which has resulted in green buildings.

Ahead of the Field

Going green can pay off in the long run. In recent years, some companies have listed environmentally-friendly features as one of their top criteria when deciding on an office space. In fact, some European countries and the US have made it such that Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are able to claim tax subsidies back home if they are able to become an environmentally-conscious corporation.

Of course, there are other benefits. Green buildings will help business owners save on operational costs in the long run by reducing energy usage and increasing energy efficiency. It has been found that green buildings consume 30 per cent less energy on the average. Therefore, even though construction costs may be higher in the beginning than traditional buildings, these costs can be easily recouped through higher savings in energy consumption. Besides lower energy and water consumption, other advantages include lower long-term maintenance costs, higher rental rates, lower vacancies and better marketability overall.

The Global Real Estate Sustainability Report (GRESR) survey conducted annually is “to enhance and protect shareholder value by evaluating and improving sustainability best practices in the global real estate sector”. The report includes a section on building certification. This will affect the rating of the funds as increased taxation, energy costs, fines and other environmental factors will inevitably affect the financial valuations of their investments.

In Singapore’s case, businesses who have obtained the higher ratings of the BCA Green Mark will be able to take advantage of many additional government incentives. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) grants businesses and developments which are aiming for top ratings for the BCA Green Mark additional floor space on top of what the master plan’s gross plot ratio. This will give property developers added incentive to pursue green certification which will then increase the asset’s competitiveness in the market. Thus, green buildings will soon become the foregone conclusion in the future of our society.

Greener Pastures

As the number of green building continue to rise in both Singapore and overseas, what happens to the non-green buildings? Governments can offer incentives to encourage building owners to undergo renovations and retrofitting works to transform their non-green buildings and allow them to become more environmentally friendly. Some ways in which a non-green building can be renovated include incorporating measures to bring down energy consumption or to install recycling features. Some examples include the replacement of chiller plant replacements, upgrading of the heat-recovery systems, installation of energy efficient lighting and optimisation of the air-conditioning systems.

Buildings in Singapore who have done the necessary renovation and upgrading works may be eligible for the BCA Green Mark Scheme, according to BCA. In 2008, BCA has stated that all existing buildings must attain the minimum Green Mark rating when replacing their chiller systems. Also, to encourage more owners to turn to eco-friendly practices and improve their energy efficiency, BCA has put forward a S$50 million incentive scheme which will award cash incentives to property owners who have started energy improvement works in their premises. Thus, as more buildings are increasingly converting to green technology and adopting green architecture and design, green architecture looks set for a bright future.
 

In its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) released in October 2015, the International Monetary Foundation (IMF) characterised global economic growth as moderate and uneven. This translated to a modest 3.1 per cent growth for 2015, followed by a slight improvement to 3.6 per cent in 2016. In its briefing, the IMF noted that the global economy remains at the intersection of several forces. One of these forces is China’s transformation from an economy built on investment and manufacturing, to one based on consumption and services. The other is the global fall in commodity prices, a trend brought about by over production and tepid demand in recent years. 

Looking forward, the global metalworking sector will need to navigate increased market volatility. Demand from traditional sectors such as infrastructure development, resource exploration and aerospace engineering is expected to fluctuate depending on the developments in the broader economy. 

Permanent Magnets 

The usage of permanent magnets is pervasive in our everyday life. Household appliances, consumer electronics, power generators and motor engines – these are just some of the common devices and machines incorporating permanent magnets into their function. These permanent magnets are made from materials, which are already magnetised and retain their own persistent magnetic field. For industrial purposes, they are produced through the process of casting or sintering, from cobalt, nickel, iron and alloys of rare earth elements, as well as naturally occurring minerals.
 
According to a report from Cleveland-based industry research firm The Freedonia Group, the global demand for permanent magnets is forecast to climb 7.3 per cent on an annual basis through 2019 to reach US$16.2 billion. In volume terms, this translates to a 4.6 per cent growth per year to reach 1.2 million metric tons by the same year.
 
On a geographical basis, the Asia Pacific region is the largest regional market for magnets, accounting for 70 per cent of the 2014 world total in value terms. By itself, China accounts for a significant volume due to the tremendous demand wrought by its electronics manufacturing sector. With the increasing digitisation of the world, the demand from electronics – already the largest market for magnets – looks set to grow even further. 

Superalloys   

Without superalloys, many of today’s aerospace engines, industrial gas turbines and auto turbochargers would simply not be possible. This is because normal metals and alloys would largely be unable to withstand the incredibly high stresses, temperature, and corrosive or oxidising environments within these important components. 
 
Based on market research from Technavio, the global superalloys market is set to grow at a CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) of 9 per cent from 2015 to 2019, as a result of increasing demand from the aerospace, automotive and industrial component sectors. In 2014, the aerospace sector dominated the market with a share of around 55 per cent. From 2015 to 2019, this sector is set to see even higher demand, with a 10 per cent CAGR expected through the period. Besides their abilities to withstand extreme pressure and heat, one of the reasons why aerospace is seeing such demand for superalloys is its lightweight quality, which aids in fuel-efficiency in planes. 

Lasers

Industrial lasers are commonly used in many engineering sectors, for processes, such as cutting, boring and welding, as well as for cutting small parts. While the name laser is an acronym that stands for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation”, the reality is that there are many different types of laser technologies today, such as CO2 lasers, solid state lasers, fiber lasers and excimer lasers. 
 
According to a Markets and Markets research report, the global laser processing marketing is forecast to reach US$17.36 billion by 2020, with an estimated CAGR of 6.15 per cent between 2014 and 2020. In terms of geography, the Asia Pacific region is expected to see the fastest growth rate worldwide. 
 
The same report also noted that one the key factors spurring the adoption of laser technology in manufacturing is its ability to provide a clean and damage-free operation. Another potential source of future growth could be the increasing trend of miniaturisation, especially in the medical, automotive, and electronics markets. Laser processing systems can be used for micromachining purposes, often providing faster and better results.

Machine Tools 

Machine tools are widely used in sectors such as manufacturing, general machinery, automotive, precision engineering, transport and aerospace, amongst others. These tools can largely be categorised based on their functions, such as cutting machine tools, metal forming tools and machine tool accessories.
 
TechNavio analysts have also forecast the global machine tool market to grow at a CAGR of 6.33 per cent from 2013 through to 2018. Meanwhile, a Research and Markets report has also pegged the machine tools market in China to grow at a CAGR of 6.50 per cent from 2014 to 2019.
 
All in all, the outlook for the global metalworking industry remains an upbeat one, despite the relatively modest growth prospects for the global economy. This is largely due to technology advancements in sectors such as aerospace and engineering, which in turn spur demand for increasing degrees of material durability and precision processes.

ICA 2016 takes place at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), from 2 – 4 August 2016, attracting over 300 exhibitors and 8,000 visitors both locally and internationally. The show is held alongside with the 13th International Exhibition on Laboratory Equipment, Instrumentation & Services (M.LAB 2016).

 

Malaysia’s manufacturing sector has been a main attraction to foreign investors by being the top manufacturing location worldwide ranked by assessing costs, risks and operating condition. In recognition of this achievement, ICA is in line to promote sustainable and sophisticated solutions to the manufacturing industry in Malaysia.

An outlook of the nation’s manufactured exports: In 2014, exports rose by 7.1% or RM39.11 billion to RM587.25 billion and accounted for 76.7% of total exports during this period. Efforts have been made to table an exhaustive economic plan with forecast of growth to continue at 4.6% between the years 2016 to 2020.

ICA 2016 is the centre of information, networking and niche products / services display for the Manufacturing Industry. It plays a vital role in providing a platform for both exhibitors and visitors from different industries to congregate. The exhibition’s special features will showcase Pumps & Valves, Green Technology, Instrumentation & Process Control Systems, and Factory Automation.

ICA 2016 will bring global market sharing in current challenging market condition and provides great opportunities for industry players to increase their business opportunities and expand network.



This feature was brought to you by Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd. For more information, visit www.icaexpo.com.my.

Organiser

About Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd was incorporated on January 2013. Sphere Exhibits Malaysia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings, with SPHERE standing for Singapore Press Holdings Events, Roadshow and Exhibition. We aim to be the leading M.I.C.E. company behind exciting and innovative fairs, shows, events and exhibitions for all trade and consumer businesses in Asia. 
 

Over the past years, M.LAB has been recognised as The Largest Laboratory Show in Malaysia. M.LAB is back to take place on 2 – 4 August 2016 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre held concurrently with The 13th International Exhibition on Instrumentation, Control Systems & Factory Automation (ICA 2016).

In order to remain competitive in the global economy, the demand to increase capabilities in the development of science, technology and innovation continues to grow through R&D programmes. From multinationals to Small & Medium Enterprises (SME), more players are now setting up in-house laboratories to obtain ultimate accuracy in measurement, testing and analysis of their products and services to meet international standards such as ISO 9000 series. Together with the mushrooming of R&D centres in public and private sectors, the demand for laboratories is poised for rapid growth.

M.LAB 2016 caters to the growing demand for laboratory equipment in the oil and gas, chemical, biotechnology, life science, food and beverage, health and manufacturing sectors. It is a highly focused exhibition bringing key decision makers and users from the lab industry and R&D centres.

As one of Malaysia’s premier exhibition on laboratory instrumentation, equipment, automation and services, M.LAB 2016 acts as a business platform with great branding and networking opportunities, where industry players can stay ahead with the knowledge and exposure of new products and technologies on display.




This feature was brought to you by Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd. For more information, visit www.mlabexpo.com.my. 

Organiser

About Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd was incorporated on January 2013. Sphere Exhibits Malaysia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings, with SPHERE standing for Singapore Press Holdings Events, Roadshow and Exhibition. We aim to be the leading M.I.C.E. company behind exciting and innovative fairs, shows, events and exhibitions for all trade and consumer businesses in Asia. 
 

The 17th Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB 2016) is Malaysia’s longest running food industry event. The exhibition will be held from 27 to 29 July 2016 in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), welcoming close to 15,000 visitors.

 

To ingrain further the Food & Beverage industry locally and internationally, MIFB 2016 is set to bring exhibitors and buyers to a whole new horizon with specialised sectors focusing on Food & Beverage, Seafood and Food Technology. MIFB 2016 becomes the vital role in providing its stakeholders a unique platform with numerous possibilities at the same time working in tandem with the economic growth and demands in Malaysia. As the complete business suite for the F&B players, MIFB 2016 is set to assist in the growth of the F&B industry by providing products, services, valuable insights and knowledge for business venturing, from the inception to the growth phase, to international development.
 
Welcoming 2016, MIFB will once again play host to TWO concurrent events completing further the needs of the F&B supply chain.

FOODTECH 2016 – Connecting Food and Technology

The 7th International F&B Machinery, Packaging & Service Solutions Exhibition



FoodTech 2016 has reached its 7th year with a higher level of achievement and recognition from the industry. The manufacturing sector in Malaysia has recorded a strong growth of 6.2% in year 2014, attributable to stronger performance of the export-oriented industries and expansion in the domestic-oriented industries.
 
A focused trade fair serving the food manufacturing industry in Malaysia, food technology plays a vital role to ensure quality of food in order to achieve a massive scale to meet the demands of the increasing world population. FoodTech 2016 will be featured within the same hall as MIFB 2016 with an array of Machinery, Packaging & Food Technology to offer solutions to manufacturers’ needs.

S&F Asia 2016 – The Innovative World of Seafood

The 2nd Asian Seafood & Fishery, Raw & Processed Produce, Technology and Supply Chain Solution Trade Fair


Malaysia is an important producer, market and trading nation for fish and fishery products in the region. S&F Asia 2016 is here with more quality and sophisticated products. Being a rapid growing food production system in the world, seafood is one of the most important sources of protein. Seafood products have now become the most trade commodity in international and domestic markets, with Asia Pacific countries being both the major suppliers and consumers. The possibilities in the seafood market in Malaysia will be catered in MIFB 2016, gathering manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors to showcase seafood products which are ready for export to various countries.

Special Highlights

Business Matching
Pre-arrange appointments for exhibitors to meet their desired trade buyers in order to start business negotiations immediately.
 
International Buyer Programme
Initiative to facilitate global business networking by bringing top tire international buyers to meet with MIFB’s local exhibiting eporters.
 
Local Buyers Invitation Programme
This programme aims to assist local buyers in finding the right international business partners.
 
Malaysia Halal Standard, Certification & Auditing Seminar/Workshop
Designed for those who are interested in applying for the Malaysian Halal Certificate.
 
Malaysia Siphonist Championship
Co-organised by the recognised coffee education specialist, Barista Guild Asia.
 
Business Cocktail Session
The invited delegates will be able to take this opportunity to extend networks with potential partners, buyers, suppliers or distributors.
 
Food Insights Seminar & Presentation
Seminars and presentations on F&B business opportunities, innovation and technologies by exhibiting companies.
 

This feature was brought to you by Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd. For more information, visit http://www.mifb.com.my. 

Organiser

About Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd was incorporated on January 2013. Sphere Exhibits Malaysia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings, with SPHERE standing for Singapore Press Holdings Events, Roadshow and Exhibition. We aim to be the leading M.I.C.E. company behind exciting and innovative fairs, shows, events and exhibitions for all trade and consumer businesses in Asia. 
 

Vietnam Manufacturing & Automation Technology Fair 2016 (VMAT 2016) is an event which seeks to bring exhibitors directly to the industry, offering industrial buyers more convenience and keeping them updated on the latest industrial technology. The two-day event, which boasts of more than 100 different industrial brands, is estimated to attract more than 3000 visitors.

Unique Features Of VMAT 2016:

• Get face to face with your potential buyers at this event located right at their doorstep
• Provide more in-depth details of your products during the Technology Seminars
• Network with VIP visitors and fellow exhibitors during the VMAT 2016 industry night

Featuring 4 Major Segments For The Manufacturing Industry:

• Industrial Automation
• Power and Electric
• Industrial Machineries
• Building & Construction

This feature was brought to you by Fireworks Vietnam Co. Ltd. For more information, please contact Fireworks Vietnam Co. Ltd at:

Tel: (848) 3911 7400
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.vietindustrialevent.com

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Fireworks Vietnam Co. Ltd is part of the Fireworks Trade Media Group which is one of South East Asia's largest independently owned trade media company, established in 2008. It is currently made up of 4 different business divisions: Fireworks Exhibitions and Conference, Fireworks Business Information, QUIK Fairs, JUZ Talk