Special Economic Zones in the OIC Region:
Learning from Experience
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 Maritime Research Centre (MRC) – initiative by the Maritime and Port Authority of
Singapore (MPA) and the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in 2001;
 The Centre for Offshore Research and Engineering (CORE), an initiative by the
Singapore Development Board (SDB) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) in
2003; and
 The Marine and Offshore Technology Centre of Innovation by SPRING Singapore and
Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) in 2007.
Infrastructure
5.3.6.5 Strong provision of physical infrastructure to facilitate industrial development
Jurong Island has developed world class infrastructure and connectivity which has allowed it to
develop key links to major trading hubs and manufacturing bases by both air and sea globally.
As a consequence major shipping and logistics providers have chosen to locate their regional
headquarters within Singapore.
5.3.6.6 Innovative solutions to utilities provision and ‘plug and play’ model of operation
Jurong Island has developed a system of industry integration which allows companies to ‘buy’
and ‘sell’ feedstock and products allowing the output of one plant to deliver inputs for
neighbouring plants. In addition third party providers enable companies to outsource functions
like waste water treatment, steam or hydrogen as well as storage requirements to support
manufacturing plants. This integration of both utilities and logistics functions has enabled
Jurong to create production synergies and to improve cost efficiencies by providing for
integrated industrial activities.
5.3.6.7 Outsourcing of Infrastructure Operations
Companies within Jurong Island are able to outsource non-core manufacturing operations such
as utilities provision, waste treatment, logistics and storage. This has translated into lowering of
fixed capital investments by 10-15% within the Jurong Island zone and has therefore increased
the attractiveness of investment by generating a better return on capital deployment.
Financial and Economic Climate
5.3.6.8 Responsiveness of industry to meet market conditions and support of the zone to
accommodate change
There have been three distinct phases of development, with industries on Jurong Island evolving
to position themselves competitively in regards to changing global trends. The FTZ has shifted
its focus from heavy industry, to technology, and then knowledge-intensive activities.