About the Economist Service

Our History

In 2001, the Government established the Economist Service scheme to strengthen economic analysis in public policy formulation.  The aim was to build a core group of economic experts in the public sector, deepen the analytical rigour and practical value of economic analysis, and offer public sector economists a challenging and intellectually stimulating professional career. 

Since then, the Economist Service has grown in strength, and there are now more than 100 officers serving across various Ministries and agencies in the Singapore public service.

2026 marks a significant milestone for the Economist Service as we celebrate our 25^th anniversary.  We take great pride in the contributions of past and present members, and in the impact of our work over the past 25 years.  As “One Economist Service”, we will continue to improve Singaporeans’ lives through economic thinking in public policy.

Our Purpose

As Economist Service officers, we shape public policies through economic thought leadership and robust economic insights.  We seek to contribute to Singapore’s prosperity and progress, and to support inclusive growth for all Singaporeans.  In our day-to-day work, we focus on economic surveillance, research and policy analysis. 

Economic Surveillance
We monitor global and domestic developments closely and assess their implications for the Singapore economy. This includes tracking macroeconomic trends, external demand conditions, labour market developments, inflationary pressures and sectoral performance. Drawing on economic indicators, data analysis and quantitative techniques, we provide timely assessments of emerging risks and opportunities, and help policymakers formulate appropriate and prudent policy responses. Through this work, we support forward-looking policy decisions and strengthen the Government’s ability to respond effectively to changes in the economic environment.

Research
We undertake applied research to inform policymaking, including cost-benefit analyses of major projects such as the Integrated Resorts, and evaluations of policies and programmes such as the Workfare Income Supplement Scheme. These studies draw on administrative and survey data, econometric methods and other empirical tools to assess policy effectiveness and support evidence-based decision-making.

We also develop projections of key policy parameters using econometric models, and review relevant economic literature to keep policymakers abreast of emerging research, methods and policy applications in applied economics.

In 2021, the Economist Service marked its 20^th anniversary with the publication of "Economics in Practice: Evidence-Based Policymaking in Singapore". The book features research by Economist Service officers and highlights how economic analysis has been applied to real-world policy issues in Singapore.

We also publish selected research in MTI’s Economic Survey of Singapore (ESS).

Policy Analysis
We provide economic analysis and advice to support policymaking across a broad range of economic and social domains, including macroeconomic policy, fiscal policy, manpower policy, infrastructure and the environment, healthcare, and social policy. By applying economic frameworks and empirical evidence, our economists help government agencies assess policy options, understand trade-offs, and design effective interventions.

Our economists also support high-level committees and national reviews, such as the Economic Strategies Committee (ESC), the National Productivity and Continuing Education Council (NPCEC), and the Economic Strategy Review (ESR).

Our Core Values

As Economist Service officers, we strive to be:

• Professional: We uphold high standards in research, analysis and communication, and act with integrity in all aspects of work.

• Innovative: We embrace new tools and methodologies to address complex challenges, stay ahead of emerging trends, and anticipate future policy needs.

• Collaborative: We build strong partnerships with stakeholders to achieve shared goals, and foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment.