Singapore is dynamic and business oriented, has a strong and sophisticated economy and the major regional hub for multinational businesses operating in Asia. Regarded as a rapidly growing nation, Singapore is a key cornerstone to regional development and has a role to play in driving Asia’s growth.
Singapore is a major trade, logistics and manufacturing hub for:
- aerospace
- wealth management
- financial services including fintech
- water and waste treatment technology
- healthcare and medical including medtech
- food and beverage services
- oil and gas
- clean energy.
According to government statistics, there are 37,400 international companies with headquarters in Singapore, which include 7,000 multinationals. More than half of these companies use Singapore as the regional headquarters for their Asia-Pacific business.
Australia and Singapore enjoy a close relationship and there are many opportunities in industries such as:
- aerospace
- healthcare and aged care
- infrastructure
- building and construction
- business services
- technology (including fintech, medtech and edutech)
- education (VET, skills development, research)
- food and beverages.
Business culture
Business is normally conducted in English and in a straightforward manner. As in many Asian countries, Singapore has a formal business culture with a few rules concerning etiquette which can vary according to the different nationalities e.g. Chinese, Malay and Indian.
There are many useful publications on business culture in Singapore and potential visitors may want to read these books before their visit.
Generally speaking, Australians are held in high regard in Singapore.
Setting up in Singapore
According to The World Bank, Singapore provides one of the world’s most business-friendly regulatory environment for local entrepreneurs and is ranked among the world’s most competitive economies (Source: The World Bank).
The benefits to setting-up offices in Singapore can be significant, whether you’re an individual or a corporation, the process of starting a business is simple. The pro-business policies allow relatively hassle-free entry and exit from the country through special visas and passes.
The Singapore Economic Development Board provides more detailed information about setting-up an office.
Banking and finance
Located in the heart of Asia, Singapore offers global investors access to global markets. Strategically located to serve Asia-Pacific, one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, Singapore’s well-established business infrastructure, global connectivity and trade linkages enable investors to access the approximately four billion strong Asian market within a radius of seven hours’ flight time.
Singapore continues to be well-regarded as a triple-A rated economy with strong growth potential, a sound and stable location for business expansion as well as for investments.
More detailed information about Singapore as a financial centre can be found on the Monetary Authority of Singapore website.
