Singapore’s Exports Drop 3.5% in May Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

Singapore’s non-oil domestic exports (NODX) declined 3.5% year-on-year in May, falling short of expectations for 8.0% growth, according to data released Tuesday by Enterprise Singapore. This marks a reversal from April’s sharp 12.4% surge, signaling increased volatility in the city-state’s trade performance.

While electronics exports showed a slight rise, major declines were seen in shipments of petrochemicals, non-monetary gold, and specialized machinery. The agency did not provide seasonally adjusted month-on-month data in its latest release.

By market, exports to Taiwan, Indonesia, South Korea, and Hong Kong rose in May compared to the previous year, but shipments to key partners like the United States, Thailand, and Malaysia declined. The dip in U.S.-bound exports is particularly concerning as trade tensions with Washington escalate.

Singapore’s government recently revised its 2025 GDP growth forecast down to 0%–2% from an earlier 1%–3%, citing weakening global demand and rising protectionist measures. Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong noted that the U.S. is maintaining a 10% tariff on Singaporean goods and has threatened additional tariffs on pharmaceuticals—an area where Singapore is currently seeking concessions.

With global trade momentum softening and geopolitical risks increasing, Singapore’s open and trade-reliant economy faces rising headwinds. Analysts warn that the risk of a technical recession and rising unemployment may materialize if exports fail to rebound in the second half of the year.

As one of the world’s most trade-exposed nations, Singapore is widely regarded as a key barometer for global economic health. The May export data underscores growing concerns that international trade flows could weaken further under the weight of rising tariffs and slowing demand.