Singapore Bosses Pay More for AI Skills Even as Hiring Slows in 2026

Singapore employers show softer hiring plans for the third quarter of 2026 but still offer extra pay for workers with strong AI abilities.

The latest ManpowerGroup survey found a net employment outlook of plus 13 percent, the weakest reading since late 2021.

Why AI Skills Command a Premium

Of 599 local employers polled, 35 percent plan to grow staff numbers while 41 percent expect no change and 22 percent foresee cuts.

Two thirds of firms say they will pay more for AI literacy and 64 percent will do the same for AI model development skills.

IT and data skills also attract higher offers from 56 percent of respondents.

Sectors such as public services and finance lead the way in valuing these capabilities.

Implications for Workers and Economy

This pattern signals a shift toward selective hiring that rewards targeted skills rather than broad headcount growth.

Workers who build AI knowledge alongside problem solving stand to gain an edge in a cautious job market.

Over time such trends may push more people to reskill and help Singapore stay competitive in the global tech race.

Everyday employees benefit when companies invest in tools that boost productivity and create better roles.