SINGAPORE, Feb 2 — Singapore is establishing its National Space Agency (NSAS) to advance space technology capabilities and tap into emerging opportunities in the fast-growing global space economy.
The Trade and Industry Ministry (MTI) said that the NSAS, set to begin operations on April 1, reflects Singapore’s commitment to becoming a leader in space technologies and services, backed by its strategic location and strong technological capabilities.
"Space technologies and capabilities are critical to Singapore’s open and highly connected economy, underpinning essential functions such as digital connectivity, navigation, maritime monitoring and climate resilience.
"Singapore’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, micro-electronics, precision engineering and artificial intelligence position us well to capture new opportunities in the space technology sector," it said in a statement today.
NSAS will spearhead Singapore's efforts to fully harness the value and opportunities of the growing global space economy, which is projected to reach US$1.8 trillion (RM7.10 trillion) by 2035.
It will build on the current functions of the Office of Space Technology and Industry, Singapore (OSTIn), to strengthen our research and development (R&D) ecosystem, develop the space industry, and advance international partnerships.
The agency will also take on new functions to develop and operate Singapore’s national space capabilities and to develop legislation and regulations that are pro-innovation and pro-business while ensuring space safety and sustainability.
MTI added that Singapore is now home to about 70 space companies, employing around 2,000 professionals across the value chain, from designing and manufacturing space components to providing satellite-based services.
"We have also established partnerships with international space agencies, including the European Space Agency, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the UAE Space Agency, and the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency of Thailand," it said.
