1980s to 90s
Further economic growth persisted through the
1980s and beyond, with the unemployment rate
dropping to 3%. Singapore faced the obstacle of
needing to upgrade to higher-technology industries,
in order to keep up with its competitors which were
exporting similar goods at a lower price range.
Singapore Changi Airport opened its gates in 1981.
The Housing Development Board (HDB) continued
to encourage public housing. The political status in
Singapore was stable. With continuous economic
success, Singapore became one of the world's most
prosperous countries with a high GDP per capita.
With strong international trading links, its port was
one o