Why ring-fence platform work for locals but not remote freelance work?

Singapore's two-track freelancing policy shows fairness and openness can coexist in one labour market.

- Clara Lee and Mathew Mathews

Singapore's stance on the freelance and platform economy often seems puzzling.

On the one hand, the authorities take a firm position against foreigners doing on-demand jobs here without valid work passes.

This includes delivery riders, private-hire drivers and, most recently, creative professionals such as photographers or makeup artists, as well as cross-border pickups between Singapore and Malaysia.

Yet, when it comes to work that can be performed remotely - such as content creation, coding or graphic design - the rules are far more relaxed. Local firms are free to hire freelancers or independent contractors based anywhere in the world.

Why is it that foreigners are barred from delivering food on our streets yet welcome to design apps or write articles from abroad?

WHY PHYSICAL GIG WORK IS RING-FENCED

There are clear reasons why Singapore takes a tough stance on gig work performed physically within its borders.

First, many of these jobs take place in public spaces where the state bears responsibility.

Food delivery, ride-hailing and even onsite creative services, such as photography, depend on access to our roads, pavements and venues. This requires licensing, training and insurance regimes to ensure safety and accountability.

Second, such work serves as an employment shock absorber for locals during downturns.

Platform driving and delivery offer fallback options, along with quick entry and flexible hours for those between jobs, caregivers and midto lower-skilled workers. Allowing foreigners to compete freely in this space would depress remuneration and locals would lose a safety net.

Third, consistency with Singapore's broader foreign manpower policy matters.

Work performed physically in Singapore is already regulated through rules imposed on various classes of employment passes, as well as the corresponding quotas and levies.