FTZ News: Singapore — Singapore’s Free Trade Zone ecosystem is strengthening its position as a global logistics and supply chain hub following the opening of a new fully automated distribution centre by A.P. Moller – Maersk, supported by Singapore’s investment agencies.
The new facility, known as World Gateway II, represents an investment of more than S$200 million (approximately US$150 million) and adds 1.1 million square feet of advanced logistics capacity to Singapore’s trade infrastructure.
The automated distribution centre is designed to support regional and global companies using Singapore as a gateway for Asia-Pacific markets, providing advanced warehousing, e-commerce fulfilment, and supply chain management services.
According to Singapore officials, the facility strengthens the country’s role as a leading logistics hub by combining automation technology, strategic location, and connectivity to major shipping and aviation networks.
The new centre expands Maersk’s logistics footprint in Singapore to more than 2 million square feet and is expected to create approximately 500 jobs in operations, engineering, supply chain management, and analytics.
Singapore’s Free Trade Zone model has long focused on facilitating international trade by allowing companies to store, handle, and distribute goods with simplified customs procedures. Integrated with one of the world’s busiest container ports and extensive air cargo infrastructure, the system has helped Singapore become a key node in global supply chains.
The latest investment reflects a broader shift in free zones worldwide — from traditional customs and warehousing platforms toward technology-driven economic ecosystems.
Analysts say Singapore’s advantage comes from combining free trade infrastructure, digital capabilities, regulatory efficiency, and connectivity to fast-growing Asian markets.
With continued investment in automation and logistics technology, Singapore’s Free Trade Zones remain a benchmark for modern trade facilitation and global supply chain management.