The Singapore Food Manufacturers' Association (SFMA) is a leading industry body representing the interests and advancement of Singapore’s food manufacturing sector. Founded in 1967, SFMA has played a central role in transforming the nation’s food industry into a globally competitive, innovation-driven ecosystem. With over 500 member companies, the association serves as a catalyst for industry collaboration, capability development, export expansion, and innovation.
Organization Overview
SFMA is a non-profit organization committed to supporting Singapore’s food manufacturers through initiatives in internationalization, innovation, branding, productivity, and human capital development. It operates under the guidance of key government stakeholders such as Enterprise Singapore, Workforce Singapore (WSG), and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
Under the leadership of Thomas Pek Ee Perh, the association continuously expands its reach and relevance through thought leadership, trade representation, and global partnerships.
Core Services and Programs
1. Industry Support Services
- Export Readiness and Advisory: Assists SMEs and large enterprises in market research, regulatory compliance, and distributor matching
- Capability Building Workshops: Covers food safety, sustainability, smart manufacturing, and digitalization
- Business Matching Services: Domestic and international B2B networking and procurement support
2. Key Events and Trade Platforms
- Singapore Food Expo (SFE)
Flagship consumer and trade exhibition with over 100,000 attendees annually.
- Asia Pacific Food Expo (APFE)
Regional showcase of Asian food innovation and cross-border B2B engagement.
- Singapore Food Gifts Initiative
A national branding effort promoting local gourmet products as premium gifts.
3. Innovation & Youth Programs
- Global Ready Talent Programme: Internships and overseas work exposure for food science and business students
- Upcycle Revival Challenge: Youth-driven program promoting sustainability through food waste valorization
- Food Innovation Product Award (FIPA): Celebrates breakthroughs in functional foods, clean label solutions, and novel packaging
Strategic Role and Impact
SFMA has evolved into a pivotal enabler of Singapore’s food innovation ecosystem, aligning with national strategies such as Singapore Food Story and 30 by 30 food security goals. The association facilitates:
- International Trade Delegations: To China, Japan, UAE, Australia, and more
- Participation in Global F&B Fairs: SIAL Paris, FHA Singapore, ANUGA Cologne, Gulfood Dubai
- Policy Advocacy: Works with government bodies on regulatory issues, sustainability targets, and industry transformation roadmaps
Industry Coverage and Membership
- Total Members: Over 500 (as of 2023)
- Sectors Represented:
- Snacks and Confectionery
- Ready Meals and Frozen Foods
- Beverage and Functional Drinks
- Sauces, Condiments, and Spices
- Health and Nutraceutical Food
- Food Packaging and Equipment Suppliers
Market Contributions and Insights
- Singapore Food Manufacturing GDP Contribution: ~SGD 4 billion annually
- Food Export Value Supported: Estimated SGD 8.6 billion (Enterprise Singapore, 2022)
- Top Destinations for Members: China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Middle East, USA, EU
- SME Coverage: ~80% of SFMA members are small and medium-sized enterprises
Infrastructure and Initiatives
- Innovation Resource Access: Through collaborations with FoodInnovate, IPI Singapore, and A*STAR
- Digital Transformation Programmes: Encourages ERP adoption, e-commerce acceleration, and AI-driven supply chains
- Sustainability Engagement: Supports the Zero Waste Masterplan via green packaging pilots and upcycling forums
Certifications and Partnerships
- Recognized by Enterprise Singapore and SFA
- Partners: NTUC LearningHub, Nanyang Polytechnic, JTC Corporation, SMF Centre for Corporate Learning
- International Collaborations: ASEAN Food Industry Council, APAC regional food associations
Highlights and Testimonials
“SFMA has been instrumental in opening doors to the Middle East market and ensuring we meet all export standards.”
– Member Testimonial, Local Snack Exporter
“The association’s focus on innovation has helped us transition into healthier, functional beverage categories.”
– CEO, Singapore Beverage Manufacturer
Key Documents
Brands and Initiatives
- Tasty Singapore: National branding platform promoting Made-in-Singapore F&B products
- SG Food Makers: Public engagement program celebrating local food entrepreneurs and startups
Through its holistic approach encompassing trade, innovation, and collaboration, the Singapore Food Manufacturers' Association (SFMA) continues to empower the local food manufacturing community to compete and lead on a global stage.
