Fingerprint biometric security solutions provider Upek ( www.upek.com ) has selected Singapore as the location for its International Headquarters (IHQ). The California-based firm, with international offices also in Prague, Taipei, Beijing and Tokyo, said it selected Singapore over other sites because of the quality of its labour pool, its proximity to suppliers, business partners and customers, its unique central location and world-class transport infrastructure.

“This decision marks an important milestone in our history,” said Mr Alan Kramer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Upek. “(The opening of the IHQ) realises our vision to create a truly global organisation, and also advances the vision of the Singapore Government to embrace all multi-national companies, including earlier-stage companies such as ourselves who want to maintain operations in this exciting and dynamic part of the world.”

The global biometrics market is projected to grow from US$2.1 billion in 2006 to US$5.7 billion in 2010.

The IHQ will manage all of Upek offices outside the United States, thus expanding the scope of its current Singapore operations.

Upek will also build a Centre of Excellence in Singapore, which will focus on hardware R&D and IC design, manufacturing operations and worldwide sales and logistics. It has also pledged to spend S$100 million over the next 10 years to continue to build and strengthen its presence in Singapore.

According to the International Biometric Group, the global biometrics market (dominated by fingerprint recognition in 2006) is projected to grow from US$2.1 billion in 2006 to US$5.7 billion in 2010.

“We are pleased that Upek has chosen Singapore as its international headquarters, with R&D activities and supply chain management,” said Mr Manohar Khiatani, Assistant Managing Director, Economic Development Board. “Upek’s investment will certainly add to the vibrancy of the semiconductor ecosystem in Singapore.”