Singapore raises bar on foreign workers

Friday, December 04, 2009
SINGAPORE: Singapore will make foreigners pass an English test to get a skilled worker permit next year, a move seen as addressing a poor services industry and public worries over competition for jobs ahead of possible elections.

The city state is looking to grow its labour-intensive services industry to offset dependence on manufacturing, and said earlier this year it would restrict the flow of foreign workers after the financial crisis hit growth and increased unemployment.