Singapore Local Farming: Challenges and Solutions Analysis

Core Challenges

1. Technical and Scientific Deficiencies

Challenge: Many farms approach high-tech farming from an engineering perspective without sufficient foundational knowledge in agricultural science.

• Insufficient understanding of plant physiology and growth optimization
• Poor feed quality management (using expired bread instead of proper pellets)
• Lack of water quality monitoring and nutrient tracking
• Inadequate pathogen detection and management systems

Root Cause: Singapore’s farming sector is nascent, with limited institutional knowledge transfer and farmer education programs.

2. Infrastructure Gaps

Challenge: Critical infrastructure limitations hampering farm operations and viability.

• No dedicated jetties for fish farmers, complicating the transport of feeds and equipment
• Limited electricity grid access for offshore farms (72 farms in Johor Strait rely on diesel)
• Absence of shared post-harvest processing facilities
• Inadequate cold chain and distribution networks

Impact: Higher operational costs, reduced efficiency, and market access barriers.

3. Economic Pressures

Challenge: Multiple financial stressors create unsustainable business models.

• Soaring electricity costs (critical for climate-controlled environments)
• High distribution margins charged by intermediaries
• Investment winter is reducing access to capital
• Price competition with cheaper imports
• Uncertain revenue streams due to production volatility