Minister-in-Charge of Energy and Science & Technology, Tan See Leng, underscored how innovation and intellectual property (IP) are defining growth in a rapidly changing global economy and technology landscape at IP Week @ SG 2025. The event emphasised the critical role of intangible assets (IA) in driving enterprise value. (opengovasia.com)
Today, more than 90% of the market capitalisation of S&P 500 companies comes from intangibles such as ideas, brands and data. Against this backdrop, Singapore is positioning itself as a global hub where innovation can thrive and businesses can turn creativity into growth.
Technology, especially artificial intelligence, is reshaping industries faster than ever before. With shifting geopolitics and uncertain markets, enterprises seek environments where their ideas are protected and nurtured.
Singapore has steadily built a reputation as a trusted innovation centre, reflected in its strong performance in the Global Innovation Index. Rising from 8th in 2020 to 4th in 2024 and ranking 1st in Southeast Asia, East Asia and Oceania, Singapore has shown how consistent investment in innovation and IP strengthens its competitiveness.
Central to this success is the Singapore IP Strategy 2030 (SIPS 2030), a national blueprint launched four years ago to empower enterprises to harness their IA and IP. Initiatives under this framework have enabled businesses at every stage of development to unlock value. One example is an online platform launched in 2023, which has already facilitated more than 4,500 connections between enterprises and IP service providers.
Data also demonstrates the strong link between IP activity and business growth. A joint study by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) and the Singapore Exchange (SGX), covering more than 570 listed firms, found that companies actively filing IP rights often enjoy higher market valuations.
For example, A healthcare firm’s market capitalisation rose sharply after key patents and trademarks, while a green economy company strengthened its position by linking patents to sustainable digital infrastructure.
To extend these gains, Singapore is investing in three key areas: capabilities, community and collaborations.
On capabilities, IPOS has launched the Foundational Intangibles Disclosure (FIND) programme with partners. This initiative helps firms prepare IA disclosure reports, enhancing transparency and investor confidence. A Singapore-based nanotechnology solutions provider, is the first company to adopt the framework successfully.
On community, IPOS has established the Enterprise IP Community, a platform where businesses share best practices in IP management. A new Regional IP Business Dialogue for SMEs, launched with WIPO during IP Week, further supports knowledge exchange across Asia.
On collaborations, Singapore is deepening its global networks. Marking 30 years as a party to key treaties such as the Paris Convention and the Patent Cooperation Treaty, Singapore continues to help firms protect and commercialise their IP worldwide. IPOS’s recognition as one of only 24 International Authorities for patent search and examination further enhances Singapore’s global standing.
Regionally, Singapore leads ASEAN’s patent cooperation efforts. The ASEAN Patent Examination Co-operation (ASPEC) has already accelerated nearly 1,800 patent applications, benefiting more than 400 applicants from over 30 countries. Enhancements planned for 2026, including harmonised reporting, will streamline processes further, making it easier for businesses to secure protection across ASEAN.
Beyond innovation and growth, Singapore is also ensuring access to efficient dispute resolution. Programmes like the WIPO-ASEAN Mediation initiative, supported by IPOS, offer cost-effective alternatives to litigation for resolving IP and technology disputes.
As industries transform, Singapore remains committed to equipping businesses with the tools, frameworks and networks to succeed. By strengthening its IA and IP ecosystem, supporting commercialisation and expanding international collaborations, Singapore is building a future where ideas can become assets and assets can fuel sustainable growth in an AI-driven, innovation-powered world.
