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Singapore reported 728 new COVID-19 cases as of April 16, 2020, marking a sharp increase from the previous day’s 447 cases. The majority of these infections are linked to foreign worker dormitories, posing one of the biggest challenges for the government in containing the virus. As of the latest reports, 17 dormitory sites have been designated as isolation areas under Singapore's Infectious Diseases Act by the Ministry of Health (MOH). A total of 2,689 foreign workers living in these dorms have tested positive, accounting for about 60% of all confirmed cases in the country.
The ongoing pandemic has had a significant impact on various sectors, and the construction industry is no exception. With the implementation of the circuit breaker measures and rising infection rates among foreign workers, many construction projects were halted or delayed. This, combined with a drop in business and consumer confidence due to economic uncertainty, has led to a decline in demand for real estate, both public and private.
So, how has the construction sector in Singapore been faring amid these challenges?
Historically, the sector reached its peak in 2015 and experienced a slowdown until 2018. However, by 2019, there was a noticeable recovery, with the total value of construction contracts awarded reaching S$33.5 billion. Of that, 56% came from the public sector, while 44% came from the private sector. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) had even projected continued growth through 2024, suggesting a promising outlook for the industry.
But the arrival of the coronavirus disrupted everything. The circuit breaker period forced non-essential industries, including construction, to pause operations. According to economists interviewed by *Business Times*, the second quarter of 2020 is expected to be particularly tough for the sector. The prolonged nature of the outbreak could lead to extended disruptions.
Once the circuit breaker ends, will the industry rebound quickly? That remains uncertain. Several factors could affect the recovery:
1. Will the circuit breaker be extended further?
2. Can the virus outbreak among foreign workers be effectively controlled?
3. Will workers feel safe returning to work after such a long break?
4. How will contractors enforce social distancing practices while maintaining productivity?
5. Are suppliers ready to resume normal operations and deliver materials on time?
6. Will some contractors face cash flow issues and require government support?
7. Could there be a labor shortage if foreign workers remain isolated or unable to return?
8. Will lower property demand result in a long-term slowdown in construction activity?
Despite these challenges, the Singapore government has been working hard to manage the crisis and support businesses. It’s important to stay hopeful and continue supporting both local and foreign workers during this difficult time.
For more information on the importance of the construction sector in Singapore, you can read more here: [link]