China Firms Eye Singapore Listings to Expand in Region Amid Trade War

At least five companies from the mainland or HK expected to list on SGX in 12-18 months: Sources

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At least five companies from China or Hong Kong are planning initial public offerings (IPOs), dual listings or share placements in Singapore in the next 12 to 18 months, four sources said, as Chinese firms look to expand in South-east Asia amid global trade tensions.

The companies include an energy firm, a healthcare group and a Shanghai-based biotech group, said the sources, who declined to name the firms as the plans have not been finalised.

The listings would give a boost to Singapore Exchange (SGX), which, despite being a popular venue for yield plays such as real estate investment trusts, has been struggling to attract mega listings and bolster trading volumes.

SGX hosted just four IPOs in 2024, according to its website. That compares with 71 recorded by rival Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing.

Chinese companies are looking to tap the Singapore bourse as they look to enter or expand business in South-east Asia amid a trade war with the US, Mr Jason Saw, investment banking group head at CGS International Securities, said.