Question

Mr Liang Eng Hwa: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) during this COVID-19 pandemic period, how many F&B outlets have closed down; (b) how many new F&B outlets have opened; and (c) how has it impacted the employment of workers in the F&B sector.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1. From December 2019 to June 2021, 3,440 F&B businesses ceased operations, while 5,620 new F&B businesses were formed.

2. Total employment in the F&B sector was lower by about eight percent in June 2021 compared to December 2019. The Government has supported the Food Services sector with enhanced wage support under the Jobs Support Scheme to help F&B firms retain local workers and cope with business costs during this challenging period. Last April, Enterprise Singapore also introduced the Food Delivery Booster Package to encourage F&B businesses to tap on food delivery services, by defraying commission and delivery costs. The Government is also committed to supporting job seekers through Workforce Singapore’s Careers Connect and NTUC’s e2i career centres, and initiatives under the SGUnited Jobs and Skills Package.