NTUC Handles 3,900 PME Retrenchment Cases in 2025 as Offshoring and AI Bite
Updated
Updated · The Straits Times · Jun 8
NTUC Handles 3,900 PME Retrenchment Cases in 2025 as Offshoring and AI Bite
1 articles · Updated · The Straits Times · Jun 8
Summary
More than 3,900 retrenchment and termination-related PME cases were handled by NTUC in 2025, up 5% from 2024 as more white-collar workers sought union help.
Offshoring, relocation and AI-led restructuring drove part of the increase, with NTUC saying some firms shifted roles overseas despite experienced local staff and others cut jobs as work changed faster than employees could adapt.
Singapore’s broader labour market still looked firm—unemployment held at 2% in 2024 and 2025—but retrenchments climbed from 13,020 in 2024 to 14,490 in 2025 after 6,440 in 2022.
A mediated IT case ended with a $47,600 settlement, underscoring NTUC’s message that PMEs, including some at non-unionised firms, can seek support even though retrenchment benefits are often not legally enforceable.
NTUC is pushing for earlier retrenchment notices and wider jobseeker support, while economists warn stronger mandates could hurt competitiveness even as current protections leave workers too exposed.