Amazon invests over S$2 billion in Singapore, creating over 10,000 jobs in 2023

Amazon reported on 28 November 2024 that it invested over S$2 billion in Singapore in 2023. This investment, which covered its retail and cloud operations, supported over 10,000 indirect jobs in sectors including construction, logistics, and professional services.

The expenditure included infrastructure improvements such as fulfilment centres and data centres, alongside operational costs related to customer programmes, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and employee remuneration.

Keystone Strategy, a consultancy firm, estimated that over 4,000 indirect roles were created, while an internal survey by Amazon attributed more than 6,000 additional jobs to business activities linked to the platform.

 S$12 billion to expand cloud infrastructure in Singapore

At the 10th anniversary of the AWS Summit in Singapore in May 2024, Amazon Web Services (AWS) reaffirmed its support for Singapore’s Smart Nation and National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0) goals.

AWS introduced the flagship AI programme, AWS AI Spring Singapore, to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI across six strategic areas: Public Sector, Workforce, Enterprise, Startups, Communities, and Research and Development.

To support these initiatives, AWS committed to investing an additional S$12 billion into Singapore’s cloud infrastructure from 2024 to 2028. This investment aims to meet growing customer demand and bolster Singapore’s digital transformation efforts.

Supporting businesses and global reach

Amazon’s presence in Singapore includes partnerships with thousands of businesses, particularly SMEs, which sell their products through the platform. Tools and programmes like Amazon Global Selling enable these businesses to expand internationally, providing access to global markets.

Collaborations with local organisations, such as the 2023 “Singapore Cross-border Brand Launchpad” initiative with Enterprise Singapore and the Singapore Business Federation, aim to help SMEs access overseas opportunities. The initiative targets the US market and aims to benefit over 100 local businesses by 2025.

Contribution to digital transformation

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has supported organisations in modernising IT systems and adopting digital innovations. The AWS Asia Pacific (Singapore) Region serves as a hub for thousands of customers, including businesses and public agencies such as the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore and Grab.

AWS has also launched initiatives to encourage the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI, including its “AI Spring” programme. These efforts align with Singapore’s broader digital transformation goals and involve collaboration with government and private sector entities.

Additionally, AWS has trained more than 400,000 people in Singapore on cloud technology since 2017, helping to build local digital skills. Other initiatives include educational workshops conducted in partnership with agencies such as the Infocomm Media Development Authority.

Focus on sustainability

Amazon’s investment in renewable energy includes projects with Sunseap and Sembcorp that are projected to generate enough solar power to support approximately 20,000 households annually. The company has also taken steps to reduce packaging waste, reporting an 80% increase in non-grocery orders shipped without additional packaging since 2021.

Community and workplace efforts

As part of its community programmes, Amazon contributed S$100,000 in 2023 to non-profit organisations supporting children and youth in Singapore. The company also partnered with SG Enable to improve employment access for persons with disabilities.

In workplace rankings, Amazon was listed among LinkedIn’s top 10 companies to work for in Singapore in 2023, and AWS Singapore was certified by Great Place To Work® for 2024.

The S$2 billion investment reflects Amazon’s role in supporting business activities, digital initiatives, and workforce development in Singapore. The company’s activities span multiple sectors, contributing to economic activity and aligning with national priorities for sustainability and technological advancement.