Guide to Starting an Online Business in Singapore

Despite being the second smallest country in Asia, the Republic of Singapore offers a high standard of living, developed transportation infrastructure, and holds the top spot on the 2022 Index of Economic Freedom.

Starting an online business in Singapore is appealing due to its favorable business environment, strategic location, and advanced technology. This article outlines the steps to start an online business in Singapore, reasons to establish an e-commerce business there, key considerations, and frequently asked questions.

Why Start an Online Business in Singapore?

There are many reasons why Singapore is an excellent place to start a business in Singapore, especially for those new to the market. Here are three main reasons:

1. Prime Location and Eager Investors
   • Singapore’s strategic position in Southeast Asia provides access to the Asia Pacific region, Europe, and the Americas.
   • It is the third-largest Asian investor in the EU, attracting European investors looking to expand into Asia.
2. Tech-Savvy Talent and Culture
   • Home to top universities like the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore has a pool of competitive, tech-savvy talent.
   • The population is well-versed in using the internet for daily activities, with approximately 3.3 million online shoppers and an estimated e-commerce market revenue of $7.29 billion in 2022.
3. Strong Government Support
   • The Singapore government supports digital transformation, offering low business registration costs through the GoBusiness portal.
   • Registered businesses benefit from appealing tax rates and occasional exemptions.

Steps to Start an Online Business in Singapore

While you don’t need a physical storefront, starting an online business involves handling funding, taxes, and legal matters. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Plan and Decide
   • Determine your products, target customers, and delivery methods.
   • Conduct market research to understand competition and trends.
   • Develop a business plan covering trending products, pricing, suppliers, shipping methods, and market niche.
2. Get Business Funding
   • Consider self-funding (bootstrapping), business loans, investors, and government grants.
   • Compare loan offers from banks like HSBC Singapore and DBS.
   • Seek investors who may request ownership stakes or board seats.
   • Explore government grants like the Startup SG Founder Grant and Enterprise Development Grant (EDG).
3. Incorporate the Business
   • Choose a business structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, or private limited company.
   • Prepare necessary documents: company name, registered address, directors, company secretary, constitution, and proof of identity.
   • Submit your application to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) with a fee of S$315.
4. Establish Your E-commerce Infrastructure
   • Build your online infrastructure: website, order management software, inventory management, and payment systems.
   • Consider using e-commerce marketplaces like Lazada and Shopee or platforms like Shopify.
   • Open a business account with a traditional bank or fintech platforms like Airwallex or Payoneer.
5. Remember Tax Reporting Deadlines and Government Requirements
   • Report profits, taxes, and other relevant information to ACRA and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
   • Submit your estimated chargeable income (ECI) within 3 months of the financial year end.
   • Hold an annual general meeting (AGM) and file annual returns.
   • Prepare Form C or C-S for tax filings by November 30th.

Benefits of Registering a Web-Based Business in Singapore

1. Better Tax Rates
   • Registered businesses benefit from a corporate tax rate of 17%, compared to a personal income tax rate of 22%.
2. Liability Protection
   • Registering creates a separate legal entity, protecting personal assets from business liabilities.
3. Government Support
   • Access to various e-services, corporate support schemes, and the ability to reserve domain names ending in .sg or .com.sg, enhancing business legitimacy.

FAQs for Starting an Online Business in Singapore

1. Do I Need to Register My Online Business in Singapore?
   • Yes, as per the Business Names Registration Act (BNRA), registration with ACRA is required for any ongoing profit-generating activity.
2. Which Business Structure Should I Choose?
   • A private limited company (Pte Ltd) is recommended for its tax advantages and limited liability.
3. Do I Need to Be Physically Present in Singapore to Incorporate My Company?
   • No, you can hire local firms to assist with incorporation remotely, though some banks may require physical presence to open an account.
4. Are There Other Rules and Regulations to Follow?
   • E-commerce businesses generally have fewer regulatory constraints, but licenses may be needed for specific services like broadcasting or dealing with secondhand goods.
5. Can I Expand My Online Business to Other Regions Easily?
   • Yes, Singapore’s strategic location facilitates expansion across Asia, and the online nature of your business supports cross-border e-commerce.

By following these steps and considering these factors, you can successfully start and grow an online business in Singapore.