A*STAR and Halliburton Establish S$35 Million Joint Lab in Singapore to Advance Well Completion Technologies
Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and energy services company Halliburton have launched a joint research facility aimed at accelerating the development of advanced well completion technologies. The Next-Generation Energy Xccelerator Joint Lab (NEX Lab℠), supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), will focus on research, engineering, and testing to shorten the pathway from early-stage innovation to field deployment. Details of the initiative were outlined in an announcement from A*STAR.
The S$35 million collaboration reflects Singapore’s strategy to strengthen advanced manufacturing and applied research capabilities. By combining industry expertise with public-sector research, the lab aims to support the development of technologies for energy production while building a skilled workforce and expanding local supplier capabilities. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to reinforce the country’s research ecosystem and maintain its position as a regional innovation hub, as highlighted in initiatives to strengthen technology and innovation leadership.
Joint Lab to Support Research, Engineering and Testing
NEX Lab℠ will function as a collaborative hub where design, prototyping, and validation activities are integrated within a single programme. The aim is to accelerate the translation of research outcomes into practical energy sector applications, particularly in well completion technologies used in oil and gas operations.
The launch event on 23 January 2026 was officiated by Mr Alvin Tan, Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry. The project also seeks to strengthen links between industry and research institutions, enabling companies to test and refine technologies more efficiently before deployment in operational environments.
“NEX Lab brings together Halliburton’s global expertise in well completions and A*STAR’s multidisciplinary research capabilities to advance cutting-edge technology that shapes the future of energy and the Future of Completions®.” — Shawn Stasiuk, Senior Vice President, Halliburton Completion and Production Division
Strengthening Singapore’s Energy Technology Capabilities
A*STAR views the joint laboratory as a mechanism to translate research into deployable industrial solutions. Through collaboration with global companies, the agency aims to strengthen local research and engineering capabilities while expanding opportunities for scientists and engineers to work on applied industry projects.
“A*STAR collaborates with global industry leaders like Halliburton to translate research into real-world solutions that benefit industries and support national priorities. Through NEX Lab, we will work with Halliburton to build advanced manufacturing and energy technology capabilities in Singapore and create opportunities for our scientific and engineering talent to deliver impact beyond the joint lab.” — Prof Lim Keng Hui, Assistant Chief Executive, Science and Engineering Research Council, A*STAR
The laboratory is also expected to support the development and qualification of local suppliers, helping strengthen resilient and high-value supply chains in the energy sector. This focus reflects Singapore’s wider efforts to encourage industry collaboration in emerging energy technologies, complementing initiatives such as research into next-generation solar technologies and other low-carbon energy solutions.
Longstanding Industry Presence in Singapore
Halliburton has maintained operations in Singapore since 1973. Over time, the city-state has become a global hub for the company’s manufacturing and technology activities. In 2013, Halliburton opened a 500,000-square-foot Completion Technology and Manufacturing Center in Singapore, equipped with advanced laboratories, high-pressure testing facilities, and the region’s only deep test well for completion technologies.
Singapore currently hosts the global headquarters for Halliburton’s Completion Tools product service line and employs more than 800 professionals in engineering, manufacturing, and technology roles. Components produced in Singapore support the company’s international operations and are exported worldwide, reinforcing the country’s role as a base for high-value manufacturing and applied research.
