THE local building industry is seeking opportunities overseas amidst a recovering economy, and also, going green.

Singapore Contractors Association Limited (Scal) president Andrew Khng said on Friday the industry was in talks with the Government to get loans for funding overseas projects.

The building industry has so far weathered the crisis well thanks to measures by the Government announced during the Budget in January such as risk-sharing loans and wage subsidies have given firms much relief, said Mr Khng.

It has been the star performer of Singapore's economy, with $34.6 billion worth of projects awarded last year. But as buliding activity has reached a saturation point in the local market, and there are many opportunities further afield which firms should pursue, said Mr Khng, who is also a director at Tiong Seng Contractors.

Besides focusing on seeking new opportunities overseas amidst a recovering global economy, the industry is also seeking to be greener.

The association on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) to develop a green certification for contractors.

Read the full story in Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.