SBF launches GenAI tool to help businesses navigate U.S. tariffs

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) has launched the world’s first generative AI (GenAI) platform, Trade AI Advisor (TAIA), dedicated to global trade advisory. It aims to help companies manage complex trade rules and U.S. tariffs.

Introduced on Sept. 9 at the “Navigating U.S. Tariffs: Adapt and Advance” seminar, TAIA provides clear guidance on free trade agreements, tariffs and rules of origin, using a comprehensive FTA database. The platform is designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in identifying opportunities, maintaining compliance and staying competitive in an uncertain trade environment.

The seminar highlighted the impact of the 10% U.S. tariff on Singapore exports, especially affecting pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and precision engineering components, which account for approximately 40% of exports to the U.S. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong warned that secondary effects on supply chains and investment flows are possible, and advised firms to avoid tactics that could violate U.S. transshipment rules, which carry penalties of up to 40% additional duties.

TAIA is part of the Centre for the Future of Trade & Investment (CFOTI), which also announced the CFOTI Partnership with six founding partners: DBS Bank, DHL Express, Pacific International Lines, PwC Singapore, Rajah & Tann and Temasek Foundation. The partnership will support SMEs in navigating trade complexities, building capabilities and co-developing practical solutions.

SBF Chairman S. S. Teo said the initiative advances businesses from reactive risk management toward long-term planning and growth. TAIA will initially be piloted with select users before a wider rollout.