Food security is a key concern for Singapore, given how the small, trade-dependent nation cannot fully insulate itself from food supply disruptions arising from climate change, disease outbreaks and geopolitical developments.
Like energy, the Republic strengthens its food security by diversifying import sources to reduce reliance on one source.
To this, the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) on Friday (Oct 30) announced that the country has strengthened cooperation with China, Japan and South Korea — through the exchange and renewal of three bilateral agreements.
"The agreements will deepen collaboration in key areas such as sustainable agriculture and food systems, agricultural research and development, and smart farming," the ministry said.
Agriculture, food security cooperation with China
The agreement with China, first signed in December 2023, was renewed for another three years.
It provides a framework for both countries to collaborate in agricultural research and development, agri-trade, food security, and emergency preparedness.
Apart from a joint working group on agricultural cooperation by authorities from both countries to identify areas for cooperation and advance joint initiatives, the agreement has also led to agri-food research on the indoor speed breeding of leafy vegetables.
Both countries are also working to deepen collaboration in agricultural research and development.
"The MOU will continue to provide a framework for Singapore and China to collaborate in agricultural research and development, agri-trade, food security, and emergency preparedness," MSE said.
Agriculture, food sector agreement with Japan
Meanwhile, Singapore and Japan renewed their agreement on agriculture and food sector, with the two countries marking their 60th year of diplomatic relations this year.
MSE said that the renewed cooperation agreement will provide a framework for Singapore and Japan to strengthen cooperation in agriculture and food technologies, food security and emergency preparedness, and the international commerce of food.
Beyond exchanging expertise and best practices, the two countries are also encouraging closer links among their environmental-related government agencies, companies, local authorities, and research and academic institutions.
They will also share experiences in areas such as disease management, food stockpiling and emergency response planning.
Smart farming cooperation with South Korea
The Republic will also begin cooperation with South Korea on smart farming, following the upgrade of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership in 2025.
"The MOU will provide a framework for Singapore and the Republic of Korea to promote cooperation in the field of smart farming, including technical and industrial cooperation, as well as exchanges to support improvements in productivity and resource efficiency," MSE said.
It added that cooperation will take place through the establishment of a joint committee on smart farming, co-chaired at the officials' level.
This, the ministry said, will provide a platform for the two countries to exchange information, views and expertise on smart farming.
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