Singapore brewing to wind down as APBS shifts production to Malaysia, Vietnam

The transition is expected to impact around 130 roles over the next two years.

Large-scale brewing operations in Singapore will be gradually phased down by the end of 2027 as Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS) shifts production to regional facilities in Malaysia and Vietnam under a new import-based supply model.

The transition is part of Heineken's EverGreen 2030 strategy aimed at creating a more agile and efficient regional supply chain.

The Tuas brewery will later be redeveloped into a regional logistics and innovation hub, including a pilot brewery.

The transition is expected to impact around 130 roles over the next two years.

APBS said it is working with the Food and Drink Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), affiliated with the National Trades Union Congress, to support affected employees. Measures include severance packages, job placement assistance, skills training through NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute, and access to counselling services.

FDAWU General Secretary Sankaradass Chami said the union had been engaged early in the process and worked with management to ensure fair treatment and adequate support for impacted workers.

Despite the reduction in local brewing, Heineken said Singapore will remain a strategic base for its Asia-Pacific operations.

The country will continue to host key functions including regional commercial operations, logistics coordination, innovation, and GenAI-enabled capabilities.

Kenneth Choo, managing director of Heineken Asia Pacific, noted the brewery’s longstanding role in Singapore’s brewing history. “As we position the business for the next decade, we will further build Singapore-based capabilities in GenAI, brand leadership and innovation, alongside stronger regional commercial and logistics support.”

APBS, best known for Tiger Beer, is a subsidiary of global brewing giant Heineken.

Singapore will remain the global home of Tiger Beer, with brand leadership, spanning strategy, creative direction, and research and development, continuing to be anchored in the city-state.

Under the new model, APBS will shift its focus to demand planning, packaging adaptation, export-market services, and innovation support, whilst regional logistics and customer service coordination will be strengthened from Singapore to serve key import markets.