On June 27, Singapore and China took a significant step forward in their digital partnership with the inaugural Singapore-China Digital Policy Dialogue (DPD) held in Beijing. The event, co-chaired by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information, Tan Kiat How, and Liu Liehong, Head of China’s National Data Administration, brought together government officials, industry leaders, and academic experts for high-level discussions on key digital policy issues.
The DPD aims to strengthen the robust economic and technological ties between the two nations by focusing on two primary areas: facilitating trusted commercial data flows and enhancing mutual understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) governance. These discussions are intended to foster greater cooperation and set a precedent for future digital collaboration between Singapore and China.
One of the central themes of the dialogue was the promotion of trusted commercial data flows. Both countries recognized the importance of establishing common baseline standards to enable the secure and efficient cross-border flow of data. The work group on Trusted Flow of Commercial Data highlighted the need for knowledge exchange on cross-border data sharing mechanisms. By aligning their data policies, Singapore and China aim to enhance trade and business facilitation, which is crucial for their continued economic growth and integration into the global digital economy.
AI governance was another critical focus of the DPD. Participants from both countries agreed on the importance of promoting mutual learning and understanding of AI governance frameworks. This involves collaboration between the private sector and research institutions to develop best practices and policies for AI deployment. The work group on AI Governance emphasized the necessity of establishing governance frameworks that ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies. This cooperation is expected to enhance the capabilities of both countries in managing AI’s impact on society and the economy.
The DPD builds on the strong bilateral relationship between Singapore and China, which has grown significantly since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1990. China has been Singapore’s largest merchandise trading partner, while Singapore has been the largest foreign investor in China since 2013. The dialogue represents a new chapter in their cooperation, focusing on emerging areas such as the digital economy and green development.
The establishment of the DPD was first agreed upon during a meeting between then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Chinese Premier Li Qiang in April 2023. The formal announcement came at the 19th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting in Tianjin, co-chaired by then-Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in December 2023. The DPD aims to facilitate ongoing high-level discussions on digital developments and policy matters, reflecting the dynamic nature of the digital landscape.
The first DPD has set the stage for ongoing technical exchanges and cooperation between government agencies, universities, research institutes, and businesses from both countries. This collaborative approach is expected to yield significant benefits, including enhanced trade relations, improved AI governance, and stronger digital economies. Looking ahead, the second Singapore-China Digital Policy Dialogue is scheduled to take place in Singapore next year.
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