Singapore is located in South East Asia, at the tip of the Malayan Peninsula. It is near the Strait of Malacca which is a major route for oil tankers. Singapore is one of the 20 smallest countries in the world. It has an area of 655 square kilometers in area. It is also one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Singapore’s port is the busiest port in terms of tonnage handled. It is one of the most important shipping centers in Asia. Singapore has a fine blend of architecture, cuisine, art, culture. Singapore is also a leader in new biotechnologies, petroleum refining, and the manufacture of computer components.

Singapore is the financial and technological hub of South East Asia. Singapore was a sleepy Malay fishing village, which came into its own as a British trading colony in the 1800's. The population of Singapore is a mix of Malays, Chinese and Indians. There are four official languages in Singapore - Mandarin, Tamil, Malay and English. About two-thirds of the Indians are Tamil, Malayalis, Punjabis and Gujratis.

Singapore has one main island, and 58 smaller ones. Singapore is the world's largest exporter of ornamental fish. It has thriving industries of electronics, chemicals, financial services, oil drilling equipment, rubber processing, food processing, ship repair and other industries.

Trade between Singapore and the United States traditionally has been strong. The United States is Singapore's second largest trading partner, while Singapore is the United State's fifteenth largest partner, with total U.S. exports to the country valued at $17.8 billion.Over 1,300 American companies have a presence or regional business headquarters in Singapore.

Although Singapore does not have any reserves but its strategic location, sound financial system, excellent infrastructure, transparent legal system and skilled workforce have helped Singapore establish itself as one of the top three global oil trading hubs, as well as one of the top three global refining hubs.

Singapore imports all of its natural gas, which is mainly used for power generation and petrochemical production. Natural gas use is rising rapidly, as the government promotes policies aimed at reducing carbon dioxide and sulfur emissions, ensuring energy security, and promoting the country as a regional hub for an integrated gas pipeline network. In 2002, the government set a target of 60% of the country's electricity to be generated from natural gas by 2012.