Local companies that use 3D printing for manufacturing account for 40% of the ASEAN market, which is expected to grow to USD 100bn (SD 136bn) by 2025.
Additive manufacturing can unlock the doors to sustainability, supply chain resilience and innovation, adding that there are even more opportunities to develop solutions, as well as attract new companies that will create an impact across other sectors.
To foster the rapid growth of this new technique, there are plans to launch the Digital Design Innovation Centre (DDIC) next year, as well as an academy to train professionals and technicians.
Although startups and large enterprises can also make use of the design centre, it is there to support SMEs because they employ the bulk of the Singapore workforce.
Helping SMEs build up both their knowledge and capabilities in additive manufacturing will significantly boost the value added to their products.
The academy would not only focus on the 3D-printing skills but also help to develop the entire value chain, providing job accreditation and certification across the entire spectrum of qualifications needed to meet the industry’s demand for skilled manpower.
