Singapore leads region in race to next-generation AI

• AI is moving from experimentation to strategic deployment among Singaporean businesses
• Advanced AI tools are gaining momentum across organisations
• Deeper integration, governance and resilience are now the priorities for local businesses

SINGAPORE, Nov. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Businesses are moving beyond basic AI, with Singapore recording the strongest demand for agentic AI among all markets surveyed in a new CPA Australia survey.

CPA Australia's Business Technology Report 2026 found 56 per cent of organisations expect to increase their use of agentic AI over the next 12 months, the highest result among surveyed markets. AI adoption is also near universal, with 93 per cent of businesses using AI compared with the survey average of 89 per cent.

Nearly half of respondents reported using advanced AI applications such as custom-built AI solutions and agentic AI, signalling a shift from off-the-shelf tools to technologies tailored to specific business needs.

While adoption is high, the opportunity now lies in deeper integration. Forty-one per cent of respondents said AI is used across several areas of the business, while only 12 per cent reported AI is deeply embedded throughout their organisation.

The annual survey of 1,679 accounting and finance professionals across Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Chinese Mainland and Singapore suggests the next challenge is embedding AI across business functions rather than simply adopting the technology.

CPA Australia's Singapore Deputy Divisional President, Joshua Ong, said the findings indicate businesses are moving beyond AI experimentation and focusing on how the technology can drive productivity, performance and competitive advantage.

"AI adoption is already widespread. What sets leading organisations apart is how deeply they integrate AI into their operations," Mr Ong said.

"Businesses are increasingly looking beyond generic AI tools and investing in more sophisticated technologies that can improve productivity, support decision-making and automate complex tasks.

"This direction aligns closely with Singapore's updated National AI Strategy, which places greater emphasis on moving businesses towards meaningful AI adoption and deeper integration across sectors. Singapore's strong interest in agentic AI suggests many businesses are already preparing for the next stage of digital transformation."

"The opportunity now is for businesses to translate that enthusiasm into practical applications that deliver measurable value, while maintaining effective governance and human oversight."

According to respondents, the leading benefits of AI are increased productivity, improved employee experience, and greater accuracy and efficiency in repetitive tasks.

Digital maturity remains a key strength. Ninety per cent of respondents use data analytics and business intelligence tools, while 84 per cent use cybersecurity software.

Cybersecurity remains a concern, however. Sixteen per cent reported losing time or money due to a cyber incident in the past year. While below the survey-wide figure of 19 per cent, the finding highlights the need for continued investment in cyber resilience as reliance on AI and data grows.

Respondents identified overreliance on AI, reduced human oversight, data privacy concerns and the pace of technological change as the biggest barriers to deeper AI adoption.

"Organisations that combine innovation with strong governance, cybersecurity and workforce capability will be best placed to realise the full value of AI," Mr Ong said.

Key findings

• 93% use AI, compared with the survey average of 89%.
• Nearly half use advanced AI applications, including custom-built and agentic AI solutions.
• 56% expect to increase their use of agentic AI in 2027, the highest result among surveyed markets and above the survey average of 45%.
• 41% use AI across multiple business functions.
• 12% have deeply embedded AI across their organisation.
• 90% use data analytics and business intelligence tools.
• 84% use cybersecurity software.
• 16% reported losing time or money due to a cybersecurity incident in the past year, compared with 19% across all surveyed markets.

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia's leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au

SOURCE CPA Australia