Nearly half of firms prioritise AI over cost relief

Refreshed economic strategy ranks second with 36% backing.

Harnessing AI as a Strategic Advantage was cited by 48% of respondents as the Budget 2026 measure that resonated most with businesses, followed by Advancing Our Refreshed Economic Strategy at 36%.

These findings come from the Singapore Business Federation (SBF)-IndSights Business Dipstick report, a joint study by SBF and IndSights Research, which gathered feedback on the Singapore Budget 2026 announced on 13 February 2026.

Other measures saw lower engagement, with Building a Resilient & Skilled Workforce and Cost Relief & Upskilling Support at 8% each, whilst Renewing & Strengthening Our Singapore Spirit accounted for 4%.

Despite stronger engagement with AI-related measures, a DBS report said that manpower and cost pressures continue to shape overall perceptions and operational concerns amongst small and medium enterprises.

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