Fresh Grads, Mature Workers May Face Job Challenges Amid US Tariffs: Tan See Leng

Mature workers and fresh graduates may face more challenges in the jobs market amid a global economy shake-up, said Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.

- Sharon Salim

Dr Tan was speaking to the media during the first meeting of the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce on April 16.

The task force was set up to help affected businesses and workers navigate the uncertainties sparked by US tariffs on Singapore goods. It will have three work streams, one of which will focus on identifying the pain points and immediate challenges faced by businesses and workers, and review the measures available to support them.

Dr Tan, who co-leads this work stream, spoke about the vulnerability of mature workers and how companies may choose to downsize or let them go as the Singapore economy slows.

"We are also looking at how we can support the upcoming cohort of young graduates to start their careers on good footing," he said.

Labour chief Ng Chee Meng, who is co-leading the same work stream, shared the feedback and anxieties faced by union leaders, specifically about the direct impact of the US tariffs on Singapore's electronics, chemicals, logistics and transport sectors.