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    ‘The industry is dead’: Netizens react to restrictions on foreign freelance work

    AnyFans Posted on

    By Ethel Tseng

    Copyright tnp

    'The industry is dead': Netizens react to restrictions on foreign freelance work

    Netizens have expressed mixed reactions and growing concern over restrictions on foreign freelance work, especially in creative industries.

    On Sept 11, the Ministry of Manpower informed industry stakeholders that foreigners on tourist or student visas are prohibited from engaging in creative services in Singapore, such as photography, videography, make-up, and other freelance work.

    Those found working without a valid work pass may be liable to a fine not exceeding $20,000, a jail term of up to two years, or both.

    Local creatives say ‘industry is dying’

    In a Reddit post discussing the announcement, which garnered over 200 upvotes and 100 comments, some supported the move, calling the influx of foreign freelancers a “huge problem” as foreigners are preferred over locals since their services are more affordable.

    Enforcement also remains a challenge, as some commenters pointed out that many foreign freelancers enter Singapore for short day trips to carry out these gigs.

    “No way MOM can catch these ‘freelancers’. This is killing off our own local ID designers and carpenters,” one user remarked.

    Several shared personal stories, highlighting how some Singaporeans have left the creative industry altogether as firms continue to outsource work to cheaper labour.

    “My friend exited too after amassing a huge following. He said the jobs are going to the lowest priced bidders,” one said.

    Others echoed the sentiment that the local creative scene is struggling, lamenting a lack of opportunities for locals and claiming that the industry is “dead”.

    Others defend hiring foreign talent

    Others offered a different perspective, sympathising with businesses that turn to foreign freelancers.

    “On one hand, locals charge an arm and a leg and deliver sub-par work. We need to up the bar, both for creatives and people briefing the creatives,” one netizen mused.

    With easy access to foreign workers willing to provide services at a lower price, several said they understood why businesses would choose the more economical option.

    “It’s only natural for people to pay for the lowest price bidder. Because why pay more for the same thing?” one user wrote.

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