Prime Highlights:

• Singapore will launch its first national space agency, NSAS, to lead the country in exploring opportunities in the growing global space sector.
• The agency will focus on research, supporting local space companies, international partnerships, building national space skills, and safe space regulations.

Key Facts:

• The global space economy is expected to grow from $613 billion in 2024 to $1.8 trillion by 2035.
• Singapore already hosts 70 space companies employing around 2,000 people and partners with major space agencies in Europe, India, and the UAE.

Background:

Singapore is set to enter the global space sector with the launch of its first national space agency in April, aiming to provide strategic leadership and tap into a rapidly expanding space economy. The National Space Agency of Singapore (NSAS) will focus on harnessing new opportunities created by increased access to outer space, according to Tan See Leng, Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology.

Ngiam Le Na, a seasoned public servant who has previously served as deputy CEO of Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency and at DSO National Laboratories, will lead the agency. NSAS will focus on five main areas: research, helping Singapore’s space industry, building international partnerships, strengthening national space skills, and making rules for safe and sustainable space activities.

The global space industry is growing fast and could reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, up from $613 billion in 2024. Singapore is already home to 70 space companies employing about 2,000 people and has partnerships with major space agencies, including the European Space Agency, India’s National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre, and the UAE Space Agency.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry said Singapore’s strengths in manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and precision engineering give the country a strong chance to grow in the space industry.

The announcement was made at Singapore’s inaugural Space Summit, a new platform designed to connect international aerospace firms, startups, and investors. Global companies such as Airbus and Leonardo, along with emerging players from India, Japan, and South Korea, attended the event. Organizers hope the summit will act as a springboard for companies to expand their operations across Asia-Pacific and globally.

The global space industry is growing fast and could reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, up from $613 billion in 2024. Singapore already has 70 space companies with about 2,000 workers and works with major space agencies like those in Europe, India, and the UAE.