Top Tax Strategies for Singapore Entrepreneurs in 2025
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
29 September 2025
Editor: ET
For entrepreneurs in Singapore, effective tax planning is no longer optional—it is essential for sustaining growth, ensuring compliance, and improving profitability. With the corporate income tax rate fixed at 17%, entrepreneurs must leverage available reliefs, exemptions, and smart structuring to stay ahead.
At Expede Tech Pte Ltd, we have seen how well-executed tax strategies can empower entrepreneurs to scale faster while keeping risks low. As we step into 2025, new opportunities and regulatory shifts mean it’s time to refresh your tax approach.
Further Reading: Understanding Singapore’s Tax Residency Rules for Corporates
Why Tax Strategies Matter for Entrepreneurs in 2025
1. Maximise Start-Up Tax Exemptions
Singapore offers one of the most generous start-up tax exemption schemes globally. For newly incorporated companies that qualify, the scheme provides significant tax savings during the first three Years of Assessment (YAs).
75% exemption on the first S$100,000 of normal chargeable income
50% exemption on the next S$100,000
This creates breathing space for entrepreneurs to reinvest profits back into the business. In 2025, entrepreneurs should ensure they meet the eligibility conditions to take full advantage of this scheme.
2. Leverage Partial Tax Exemption (PTE)
For companies beyond the start-up stage, the Partial Tax Exemption (PTE) scheme continues to offer substantial relief. Under PTE, companies enjoy tax exemptions on a portion of their chargeable income annually.
This system helps entrepreneurs reduce their effective tax burden and reinvest in operations, expansion, and technology upgrades.
3. Tap into Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC) and R&D Incentives
Innovation is a cornerstone of Singapore’s economy. Entrepreneurs investing in R&D, technology adoption, or intellectual property can benefit from enhanced tax deductions or cash payouts under government schemes.
These incentives reduce tax payable while promoting long-term innovation. In 2025, reviewing which activities qualify under IRAS guidelines ensures no benefit is overlooked.
4. Optimise Tax Residency for Global Operations
As more Singapore entrepreneurs expand internationally, understanding tax residency rules is crucial. A company is treated as a Singapore tax resident if control and management are exercised here.
Tax residency provides access to Singapore’s wide network of Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs), which help reduce withholding taxes on cross-border income. Entrepreneurs planning overseas ventures should structure board meetings and decision-making in Singapore to maintain residency status.
5. Plan for GST Registration and Compliance
With the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate at 9% from 2024, entrepreneurs must stay vigilant about GST thresholdsand compliance. Businesses with annual taxable turnover exceeding S$1 million are required to register for GST.
Proper GST management not only prevents penalties but also strengthens credibility with customers and partners. Entrepreneurs should also explore voluntary GST registration to claim input tax credits earlier in their growth journey.
6. Use Group Relief for Tax Efficiency
Entrepreneurs managing multiple businesses under a group structure can use Group Relief to transfer unutilized losses, donations, and allowances within the group.
This strategy optimises overall tax efficiency across businesses while ensuring no resources go wasted.
7. Work with Corporate Secretaries and Tax Advisors
Tax planning is not a one-time exercise—it requires ongoing adjustments. Corporate secretaries and advisors ensure compliance with ACRA filing requirements, IRAS deadlines, and evolving tax incentives.
Partnering with experts like Expede Tech Pte Ltd provides entrepreneurs peace of mind, knowing they are leveraging every available benefit while staying compliant.
Further Reading: Why Corporate Secretaries Are Vital in Global Expansion
Staying Ahead with Proactive Tax Planning
For Singapore entrepreneurs in 2025, adopting proactive tax strategies is not just about reducing liabilities—it’s about creating a strong foundation for growth. By combining tax exemptions, GST management, group relief, and international tax planning, entrepreneurs can maximise savings and focus on scaling their ventures.
Expede Tech Pte Ltd continues to guide businesses through Singapore’s evolving tax landscape, ensuring entrepreneurs stay compliant while unlocking financial efficiency.
Comments