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Michigan Singapore trade mission shows early signs of growth after Governor Whitmer’s first-ever investment mission to strengthen economic ties with Singapore.
A press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore noted Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited Singapore from August 30 to September 2, 2025, leading Michigan’s first investment mission to the city-state. The delegation included state economic leaders and university representatives, aiming to boost trade, investment, and innovation across the state.
Whitmer’s visible aim on this Michigan Singapore trade mission was clear: build partnerships that catalyze job growth, especially in manufacturing, clean energy, and life sciences—sectors where Michigan already has strength.
Michigan Singapore trade mission establishes state-wide economic intent through high-level diplomacy
On September?1, Whitmer met Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, who affirmed the longstanding U.S.–Singapore partnership and welcomed Michigan’s deeper engagement with Singapore’s dynamic economy. Discussions spanned trade, people?to?people links, and opportunities for collaboration.
In a separate meeting, she met Foreign Affairs Minister Dr?Vivian Balakrishnan. The two underlined how Singapore–Michigan cooperation could strengthen U.S.–Singapore relations more broadly.
That afternoon, the delegation engaged with officials from the Economic Development Board, took part in a roundtable with Enterprise Singapore and Singapore-based firms operating in Michigan, and capped the day with a reception honoring University of Michigan alumni in Singapore.
Michigan Singapore trade mission highlights regional opportunities in manufacturing and innovation
Governor Whitmer framed the visit as an “investment mission,” intended to present Michigan as “a reliable and innovative partner for the future.” She pinpointed Singapore’s strengths in finance, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy—sectors Michigan is keen to expand.
State economic development leaders traveled with Whitmer, including Quentin Messer Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and Ben Marchionna, the MEDC’s chief innovation ecosystem officer. These figures portray Michigan’s push for global engagement through both public and private-sector efforts.
Michigan Singapore trade mission reveals scale, cost, and political scrutiny of the delegation
Michigan Capitol Confidential reported that Governor Whitmer brought 18 delegates on the trip. The 12,000-mile round trip drew attention, particularly due to the cumulative cost of her international travel since 2023—funded by the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, not the MEDC. Travel costs to Japan, Spain, Taiwan, Australia, UAE, UK, and Ireland have exceeded $1 million.
The report noted that such delegations typically include public-sector, academic, and business leaders, who are usually responsible for their own expenses. Still, critics may question the use of public subsidies in times of tight budgets.
Michigan Singapore trade mission could lay groundwork for long-term investment gains
Singapore serves as a gateway to Southeast Asia’s fast?growing markets. Michigan’s exports to Singapore in 2024 amounted to $283 million—mostly transportation equipment, machinery, and chemicals. The state hopes to leverage its research institutions and innovation ecosystem to attract further capital and partnerships in clean tech, life sciences, and mobility.
University of Michigan leaders joined the mission to build research collaborations and tap alumni networks abroad.
Related coverage
- Indiplomacy reports on Whitmer’s meetings with Singapore’s leaders The Straits Times+5In Diplomacy+5WJR-AM+5
- Michigan Capitol Confidential raises questions about delegation size and cost Michigan Capitol Confidential
- WJR highlights the state’s ongoing outreach to attract foreign investment WJR-AM+1
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