New playbook offers SMEs and MNCs a clear roadmap to respond to U.S. tariff changes.
On 22 May 2025, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) unveiled the 鈥淣avigating U.S. Tariffs鈥 Playbook to help local companies respond to new tariff changes imposed by the United States. Developed by SBF鈥檚 Centre for the Future of Trade and Investment (CFOTI) in collaboration with industry partners such as DBS Bank, DHL Express Singapore, PwC Singapore, Pacific International Lines, and Rajah & Tann, the guide provides timely, practical steps for businesses to make sense of and navigate trade disruptions.
The launch follows a flash poll conducted between 11 and 23 April 2025, which gathered nearly 300 responses across various sectors, 81% of which were small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The findings revealed that 81% of respondents expect negative operational impact from the new tariffs, while nearly one in five businesses indicated that more than half of their revenue is tied to the U.S. market. The poll also found increased concerns over rising costs, cash flow issues, and supply chain uncertainties, particularly among SMEs.
The Playbook proposes a structured, three-phase action plan. The 鈥淢ake Sense鈥 phase (0鈥3 months) helps firms stabilise operations through financial assessments and risk mapping. The 鈥淭ake Action鈥 phase (4鈥12 months) encourages supply chain adjustments and the use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The final 鈥淧lan Ahead鈥 phase (12+ months) promotes resilience through digitalisation, innovation, and diversification.
SBF Chief Executive Officer Mr Kok Ping Soon stressed that 鈥渕ore than the actual tariffs, it is the uncertainty over the final outcome that is paralysing business investment.鈥 He added that the playbook is designed to shift companies from reactive to strategic thinking, positioning them for long-term success amid global trade volatility.
To support adoption of the Playbook, CFOTI will organise workshops, offer advisory services, and facilitate consultations with legal, financial, and logistics experts. These efforts aim to help companies tailor solutions that match their sector, size, and business model.
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