SINGAPORE’S total population reached an all-time high of 6.11 million as of June 2025, growing by 1.2% compared to the previous year, according to government statistics released on Monday.
Reutrers reported today that the growth was attributed primarily to an increase in the number of foreign workers, which rose by 2.7% year-on-year to 1.91 million.
The National Population and Talent Division noted that the uptick was concentrated in sectors such as construction, marine shipyard, processing, and domestic services.
“These workers support key infrastructure projects such as Changi Terminal 5 and the ramping up of housing supply,” the department stated.
While the number of Singapore citizens increased modestly by 0.7% to 3.66 million, the permanent resident population held steady at 0.54 million.
The steady return of foreign workers marks a reversal from the pandemic years, during which border restrictions led to temporary population decline—a rarity for the Asian financial hub.
However, growing numbers of non-citizens continue to be a sensitive political issue, especially amid voter concerns over job competition and rising living costs. A controversial 2013 population plan to raise numbers to 6.9 million by 2030 prompted rare public protests.
Authorities say the pace of foreign workforce growth remained stable between June 2024 and June 2025. Unemployment in Singapore stood at a low 2% as of June, despite a reduction in job vacancies as companies brace for economic headwinds.
The city-state’s economy grew by 4.4% year-on-year in the second quarter, exceeding initial forecasts, although officials expect a slower second half due to external pressures, including US tariffs. - September 29, 2025
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