Firstly, on trade and connectivity, Singapore and Sichuan companies continue to tap into new opportunities. Apeiron Bioenergy, for example, signed an MOU with Longchang Yuanjuon on Sunday to process used cooking and waste oil into biodiesel products for export to Europe.
Second, on innovation, Dr Tan said: “Singapore-Sichuan Hi-Tech Innovation Park remains an entry point for Singapore companies’ expansion into China.”
He highlighted the partnership between InnoVen Capital China and Ziyang Major Industry Equity Investment Fund, which has committed to support high-growth tech and healthcare startups, and develop relevant industry chains in Sichuan.
“Third, Singapore SMEs are optimistic about the growing business opportunities in Sichuan, especially in Chengdu as it develops itself into an international consumption centre,” he said.
The Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Sichuan Representative Office agreed to work with the General Association of Sichuan Entrepreneurs in enabling more business exchanges by co-organising events, delegation visits and facilitating business matching.
Other MOUs signed on Sunday also sought collaboration on first-class vehicle inspection services in China; joint investment, construction and operation of energy solution services in the Wuhou district; and the building of an international smart transportation exchange centre in West China.
“Singapore and Sichuan can deepen and broaden our strategic cooperation further,” Dr Tan said.
This can be done in areas such as trade and connectivity, with Sichuan becoming an “influential trade and connectivity node”, leveraging its position as a major agricultural production base, trading hub and consumption centre to connect Western China to regions such as Southeast Asia and Central Asia.
The two can also support each other in sustainable development, “to co-develop renewable energy sources and low-carbon solutions”, he added.
“Singapore can share its experience and strong capabilities in urban planning and renewal to support Sichuan’s plan to accelerate urbanisation and drive green transformation.”
He also noted Sichuan’s role as a key producer of clean energy in China; and Singapore’s as one of the world’s leading energy trading hubs.
Besides trade and connectivity and the green economy, Dr Tan also highlighted potential partnerships in the constantly evolving and rapidly growing digital economy, and emphasised the importance of people-to-people exchanges – which can be facilitated through youth exchange and internship programmes between Singapore and Sichuan.
“Singapore and Sichuan economic relations have grown from strength to strength over the years despite the pandemic,” said Dr Tan, noting the SSTIC’s importance in fostering closer economic collaborations.
“The Sichuan leaders and I also discussed the importance of enhancing our connectivity, especially air links, that could help to boost further trade and people-to-people exchanges from both sides, which could benefit both enterprises and individuals.”
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