TP-Link makes a $40 unmanaged 16-port gigabit switch and a $80 managed 16-port gigabit switch.
He's created a False dilemma/dichotomy by pretending that other options don't exist. This is like saying "I'd like a Toyota automobile larger than the Yaris but I can't afford the Lexus LS".
Singapore is a very small (~250 sq mile) country, so it would take less than 30 minutes to drive across.
It's very wealthy.
It has, almost dead center in the middle, an electronics mall called Sim Lim Tower that's like 10-20 stories tall.
They most certainly have options.
I was just pointing out characteristics that would lend themselves toward sourcing a network switch (e.g. accessible, wealthy, giant freaking electronics malls).