Singapore rolls out S$640 million support package for businesses

Singapore will be rolling out a S$640 million (US$476.5 million) support package for affected businesses in lieu of extended COVID-19 restrictions in the city-state. 

The government has extended the period for tighter restrictions to November 21; it initially started on September 27 and was scheduled to last until October 24. 

During this time, work-from-home is to be the default arrangement for workplaces, while social gatherings and dining-in are capped at two pax. Businesses in select sectors significantly affected by the tightened measures will receive a 25% wage support under the Jobs Support Scheme.

Businesses eligible for this include F&B, retail, cinemas, museums and art galleries, family entertainment, tourism, gyms and fitness studios, and performing arts and arts education.

Companies renting government-owned commercial properties will also be given a two-week rental waiver, while eligible tenants of privately-owned commercial properties will be given a half-month rental relief cash payout under the Rental Support Scheme.

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Hawkers and market stallholders in centres managed by the National Environment Agency (NEA), or under operators appointed by NEA will also receive a half-month rental waiver.