Featured Stories | Singapore Economic Development Board

Propelling Forward

What drew BERG Propulsion of Sweden to locate its first overseas plant halfway across the world? In May 2008, the company – a leading manufacturer of controllable pitch propellers for the marine industry - launched its brand-new production facility in Tuas, Singapore. The plant is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. “With its favourable market environment, readily available pool of talent, and a quality reputation, Singapore offers a great venue for BERG Propulsion to work within,” said Mr. Bjorn Svensson, chairman of BERG Propulsion.

The company’s products are used in marine propulsion systems to give propulsive efficiency and to improve manoeuvrability of a vessel. Its propellers can be used on most types of ships. BERG’s Singapore facility is a milestone for the company as it will allow BERG to more than double its output and meet the requirements of its growing customer base. As part of its expansion thrust in Singapore, the company plans to invest up to US$47.5 million (S$65 million) over the next five years.

Navigating with Success

Singapore conglomerate Keppel is a leading force in the offshore and marine world. It is the No. 1 designer and builder of jack-up rigs worldwide, having built the most number of jack-ups on order in the last decade. It is also a world leader in Floating Production Storage and Offloading and Floating Storage and Offloading conversions. Aside from this, Keppel is a leading ship repairer for carriers of liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas and a niche player in specialised conversions and construction. Headquartered in Singapore, it has 20 yards spread across the Asia Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, Caspian Sea, Middle East and the North Sea.

In 2007, Keppel's Offshore and Marine Group completed a total of 33 major projects, all on time or ahead of schedule, and with outstanding safety records. The Group continues to enhance its worldwide facilities to meet strong demands for drilling rigs, production facilities and specialised vessels that can be deployed in deeper waters and withstand harsher environments. It has also bolstered its research and technology capabilities to develop new solutions to meet market requirements. Keppel continually sets new watermarks for the global offshore industry and for Singapore.

Charting Growth

Rolls-Royce has been active in Singapore’s marine industry since 1977. Recognising the increasing importance of Asian markets, where a substantial proportion of global commercial shipping activity takes place, the company announced in February 2009 that it will be moving the global headquarters for its Marine business to Singapore from London.

The move underscores Singapore’s growing presence as a home for companies to manage and drive their global businesses, as well as its the nation's position as a hub for the marine industry.