The Ministry of Finance (MOF) in Singapore has officially opened the floor for public consultations regarding the upcoming Budget 2026. This significant move is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that its fiscal plans are reflective of the needs and aspirations of the Singaporean public. Through this initiative, Singaporeans from all walks of life are encouraged to share their perspectives on key issues, ranging from economic growth and sustainability to healthcare and social welfare.
Public consultations for national budgets are an essential part of Singapore’s decision-making process. They offer both individuals and businesses a voice in shaping the policies that affect their daily lives. Budget 2026, in particular, is expected to address crucial long-term challenges, including economic transformation, environmental sustainability, and the evolving needs of an ageing population. Through this consultation, MOF hopes to gather diverse viewpoints that can better guide policy decisions in the years ahead.
As part of the public consultation, the MOF has identified several key focus areas that are likely to shape the discussions:
Economic Transformation: As Singapore strives to maintain its position as a global economic hub, stakeholders are invited to suggest ways to support business innovation, foster digitalisation, and enhance productivity. This includes feedback on measures to enhance the resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and create a business-friendly environment that fosters investment and growth.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives: Sustainability continues to be a central theme in Singapore’s policy-making. The government has set ambitious targets for carbon reduction and environmental preservation. The public is encouraged to contribute ideas on how Budget 2026 can support Singapore's sustainability efforts through incentives for green businesses, eco-friendly practices, and initiatives that reduce the carbon footprint of industries.
Healthcare and Social Welfare: Singapore’s ageing population remains one of the most significant challenges facing the country. As the demand for healthcare services grows, Budget 2026 is expected to focus on increasing healthcare accessibility and improving the quality of services. Citizens and organisations are invited to provide suggestions on how the government can better cater to the elderly and improve long-term care services.
Education and Skills Development: As technology continues to reshape the workforce, there is an increasing demand for upskilling and reskilling. The MOF is seeking public input on policies that could improve access to education and training, particularly in high-demand sectors like tech, healthcare, and green industries.
MOF has made it easy for citizens to engage in the consultation process. The public can submit their views and suggestions via the Ministry’s official budget consultation portal. The consultation is open to a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals, businesses, and social organisations.
For those looking to provide more detailed feedback, several thematic dialogues and forums will be held throughout the consultation period. These events allow participants to interact directly with government representatives and discuss specific areas of interest. Additionally, various platforms will be available for people to submit their views online, ensuring broad participation from all sectors of society.
For the first time, the Ministry has extended its consultation efforts to include more diverse formats. In addition to traditional written submissions, participants can contribute through interactive town hall sessions, online polls, and even social media. The government's open approach is designed to ensure that the final Budget 2026 plan reflects a comprehensive range of voices.
It is important to note that while the consultation process provides an opportunity to express views, the MOF will need to balance these inputs with the country’s fiscal realities and long-term goals. However, public feedback remains a crucial component in refining policies that best serve the needs of the nation.
Engaging in the Budget 2026 consultation offers a direct avenue for Singaporeans to influence national policy.
Moreover, the consultation provides valuable insights into how the government views its future priorities. For example, areas like environmental sustainability and workforce development are likely to become more prominent as the economy transitions to a greener, more technology-driven future.
Since the announcement of the consultation, feedback has been pouring in. Many stakeholders have called for more emphasis on sustainability, particularly around carbon taxes and green business incentives. Others have highlighted the need for continued support for SMEs to navigate the digital economy. Several individuals have raised concerns about the rising costs of healthcare and the need for greater subsidies to ensure that all Singaporeans, particularly the elderly, can access affordable medical services.
As Budget 2026 takes shape, it is clear that Singapore’s financial future will be shaped by the collective input of its citizens.
As Singapore moves forward into a new chapter of economic and social challenges, public consultations such as this are vital for shaping a future that benefits everyone. By submitting views and suggestions, Singaporeans have the chance to directly influence policies that will affect their daily lives and the nation’s long-term success. The ongoing consultation for Budget 2026 is a significant opportunity for all voices to be heard.
For more details and to submit your suggestions, visit the official Ministry of Finance website.
REACH, the Singapore Government's feedback and engagement unit, will be hosting an in-person pre-Budget Listening Point on 21 January 2026, from 11.30am to 2.30pm at Geneo.
This event aims to gather public feedback on the themes for Budget 2026. In addition to this, Singaporeans can submit their Budget 2026 feedback over the next six weeks through multiple platforms, including the Singapore Budget website, the REACH Budget 2026 microsite, and the People's Association ShareYourViews portal, providing various ways for individuals to share their views and contribute to the upcoming budget discussions.
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