Mainland Chinese restaurant chains boom in Singapore, taking over Chinatown

Singapore has experienced an influx of Mainland Chinese restaurant brands entering its market, with residents also opting for "northbound consumption" in Malaysia.

It is reported that the country had around 32 Chinese catering brands as of the end of June last year, and the brands are now operating 184 outlets, 90 percent of which entered during the pandemic.

However, a total of 2,465 catering companies ceased operations in the first nine months of last year in Singapore, averaging 274 per month.

A co-owner of a restaurant joint invested in by Chinese and Singaporeans, surnamed Wong, told reporters that mainland Chinese brands run the majority of the restaurants in Chinatown.

He pointed out that foreigners are willing to run businesses in Singapore because they trust its political and economic stability, adding that Singapore is a multiracial society where business is conducted harmoniously without antagonism.

He stressed that the only way to distinguish oneself amid fierce competition from China is to concentrate on unique strengths and achieve success through quality. 

The owner of a dim sum restaurant, surnamed Leung, noted that most eateries in Chinatown were Hong Kong-style two decades ago, with only a few Chinese restaurants.

However, many of these owners have chosen to return to Hong Kong after retirement due to Singapore's high cost of living.

In addition, Wong noted that Singaporeans also head north to Malaysia for consumption, attracted by the similar culture, diverse food options, and lower prices compared to Singapore.

As for the consumption power of Singaporeans, Leung said some families tended to spend even on weekdays in the past, but now they choose to dine out on weekends.

(Judy Cui)