Global AI Governance Law and Policy: Singapore

This article is part of a series on global AI governance law and policy.

Singapore has solidified its position as a global leader in AI governance, balancing innovation with ethical considerations through a flexible, principles-based approach. Tortoise Media’s Global AI Index continues to rank Singapore in third place, below the U.S. and China, in respect of level of investment, innovation and implementation of AI. The publication describes Singapore as "Asia’s most dynamic AI hub after China" and having "made big advancements on absolute metrics, especially on AI research and development."

History and context

AI governance in Singapore began with three initiatives in 2018. First, an Advisory Council on the Ethical Use of AI and Data was appointed. This led to the publication of a discussion paper on the responsible development and deployment of AI. Finally, the government supported the launch of a research program on the governance of AI and data use.

In 2019, the Singapore government published its first National AI Strategy, outlining plans to drive AI innovation and adoption across the economy to generate significant social and economic impact. The Smart Nation and Digital Government Group, which operates within the prime minister’s office and is administered by the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, designed and oversaw this strategy. The NAIS represented a whole-of-government approach to advance and oversee AI development and governance.

An updated strategy, NAIS 2.0, was launched in December 2023 to address recent challenges and uplift Singapore's economic and social potential over the next three to five years. NAIS 2.0 seeks to achieve two goals: develop areas of excellence in AI that advance innovation and maximize economic impact, and empower individuals, businesses and communities to use AI with confidence, discernment and trust.