Singapore’s Q3 2025 Hiring Outlook: Cautious Growth Ahead

Singapore’s employment outlook for the third quarter of 2025 reflects a mix of optimism and caution. According to ManpowerGroup’s latest survey of 525 employers, 43% plan to increase hiring — up from 39% in the previous quarter. However, 19% expect to reduce headcount, compared to 12% last quarter. As a result, the net employment outlook has dipped slightly to 24%, down from 27%.

Singapore Q3 hiring mixed: growth hopes tempered by economic concerns.

Mixed Signals from Employers

The top reason for hiring is company expansion (43%), followed by the need for skills to remain competitive (30%). Conversely, employers planning to reduce staff cite economic challenges (42%) and market adaptation (30%) as key factors.

Sector Highlights

• Sectors with the strongest hiring outlook:

  1. Healthcare and Life Sciences – While slightly down from the previous quarter, this sector continues to lead in employment growth.

  2. Information Technology – Ongoing digital transformation continues to fuel demand for tech talent.

  3. Transport, Logistics, and Automotive – Supported by infrastructure investment and regional supply chain activity.

• Sectors with the weakest hiring outlook:

  1. Consumer Goods and Services – Facing subdued consumer demand and margin pressures.

  2. Industrials and Materials – Impacted by fluctuating global demand and cost constraints.

  3. Financials and Real Estate – Hiring is cautious amid regulatory changes and interest rate uncertainty.

  
  

Implications for Employers and Job Seekers

The mixed employment outlook suggests that opportunities still exist—particularly in growth sectors—but hiring may become more selective. Job seekers with in-demand skills, especially in healthcare and technology, are likely to remain competitive in the market.

Employers, on the other hand, face the challenge of balancing expansion goals with the need to remain agile amid evolving economic conditions. Strategic workforce planning and targeted upskilling efforts will be critical in the months ahead.

Conclusion

Singapore’s labour market in Q3 2025 reflects a climate of cautious growth. While a higher percentage of employers are planning to hire, the simultaneous increase in expected layoffs points to underlying economic concerns. Sector-specific trends highlight areas of resilience and vulnerability, reinforcing the need for both employers and job seekers to stay informed and adaptable in a changing environment.