Charge d’Affaires Casey Mace recently addressed the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore, marking the reopening and remodeling of its office. This event signifies a milestone in the ongoing partnership between the United States and Singapore.
Mace extended his congratulations to AmCham Singapore and its leader, Hsien, for their renovation efforts. He described the remodeled office as "the nerve center for one of the most important organizations helping to foster and further strengthen the enduring and dynamic economic relationship between our two nations."
The U.S. Mission to Singapore collaborates with AmCham Singapore to connect American businesses with Southeast Asia's growing market. Mace highlighted that over 6,000 U.S. firms operate in Singapore, with bilateral trade exceeding $122 billion annually. The cumulative U.S. investment in Singapore totals over $424 billion, while Singaporean investments in the U.S. amount to more than $58 billion.
Mace emphasized that American companies are among Singapore’s top employers, bringing "exciting products, compelling brands, cutting-edge technology," and other innovations to the region.
He also touched on broader trade issues: "Achieving a balanced, reciprocal, and mutually beneficial trading relationship is at the heart what the Trump Administration’s America First Trade Policy seeks to pursue." He noted that tariffs are just one tool being used by the administration.
Mace pointed out challenges posed by China's trade practices: "When a country pours over a trillion dollars in state subsidies...as China has for years, the system will break." He urged Southeast Asia's policymakers to address these challenges or risk diminishing faith in trade.
Despite these challenges, Mace assured that "the United States remains committed to expanding trade and growing prosperity" while advocating for fair economic agreements.
In conclusion, Mace expressed optimism about future U.S.-Singapore relations: "As we celebrate...we can look to the future with optimism and determination." He commended AmCham Singapore for its commitment to improvement and readiness for new opportunities.