Mr Gan Kim Yong was appointed Minister for Trade and Industry on 15 May 2021. One of his key priorities at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) is to identify new opportunities for growth in support of Singapore’s continued economic development. Mr. Gan continues to co-chair the Multi-Ministry Taskforce to direct and coordinate Singapore’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to MTI, Mr Gan was Minister for Health from May 2011 to May 2021. He oversaw efforts to drive Healthcare 2020, a masterplan outlining the Government’s strategy to ensure accessibility, quality and affordability of healthcare in Singapore. From April 2008 to May 2011, Mr Gan served as the Minister for Manpower. He led the ministry’s efforts to minimize mass retrenchments through concerted efforts with industry partners during the economic recession in 2009. His other previous appointments include Minister of State for Education (October 2005 to March 2008) and Minister of State for Manpower (October 2005 to March 2008). Mr Gan was awarded the Overseas Merit Scholarship to read Engineering in Cambridge University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree (honors) in 1981. Mr Gan subsequently obtained his master’s degree in Engineering from Cambridge University in 1985.