[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”Is Singapore Still a Good Place to Do Business in 2026?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Singapore CBD skyline showing why Singapore remains a trusted business base in 2026″ title_text=”Singapore remains a trusted business base in 2026″ background_image=”https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.lionsworld.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Singapore-remains-a-trusted-business-base-in-2026.avif” background_overlay_color=”rgba(12,113,195,0.75)” title_font_size=”56px” title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_shadow_style=”preset5″ title_text_shadow_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.74)” content_font_size=”18px” content_line_height=”1.6em” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_padding=”75px||75px||true|false”]<\/p>\n
Trade tensions and tariffs have founders rethinking their base.
See why Singapore is still a top place to do business in 2026, and what smart founders do next.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_fullwidth_header][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
In a world shaped by volatility \u2014 trade tensions, escalating costs, and political uncertainty<\/strong> \u2014 choosing a reliable business base has never been more vital.<\/p>\n To understand why Singapore remains a standout in this uncertain environment, it\u2019s useful to examine what truly distinguishes it \u2014 especially as businesses seek stability amid rising volatility.<\/p>\n Singapore\u2019s adaptability, strong management, and business-friendly environment, anchored in global connectivity, help companies thrive<\/a>, even amid high global uncertainty.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#fafcfe” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” header_font=”|700|||||||” header_2_font=”|700||on|||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”32px” header_2_line_height=”1.2em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Many commentators predict doom and gloom: more tariffs, weaker trade, slower growth, and more global tension. However, the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026<\/strong> found that globalisation reached a record high, despite the tensions. In fact, the same report ranked Singapore as the world’s most connected country<\/a>, reaffirming its position.<\/p>\n This level of connectivity goes beyond statistics, directly shaping opportunities and realities for businesses operating in Singapore.<\/p>\n Being highly connected, Singapore makes it easier to trade and work with overseas partners, access talent and supply chains, and remain resilient when markets face difficulties.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Growth has not disappeared” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”32px” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.lionsworld.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/economic-growth-momentum.avif” alt=”Singapore\u2019s global trade connectivity supports businesses with strong access to regional and international markets” title_text=”economic growth momentum” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”860px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n According to the Ministry of Trade and Industry on 10 February 2026, Singapore\u2019s economy grew by 6.9% in the fourth quarter of 2025<\/a> \u2014 up from 4.6% in the third quarter.<\/strong> Full-year growth in 2025 was 5.0%, driven primarily by gains in manufacturing, especially in electronics and biomedical output. Growth was largely attributed to demand for AI-related semiconductors, servers, and related products<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Not every business will have an easy ride. Still, Singapore\u2019s ongoing momentum stands out, especially compared to others focusing mainly on defence. For those wanting to expand or reposition, this matters.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#eef4f8″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Strong government finances still count” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As global uncertainty rises, the importance of strong government finances grows.<\/p>\n In its latest consultation on Singapore, the IMF<\/strong> said the country\u2019s economy has shown resilience because of its strong policy framework<\/strong>. It also said Singapore has considerable fiscal space \u2014 meaning the government can support the economy if needed. The IMF said the FY2025 budget stance should help support activity<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n This matters for businesses because it reduces the risk of panic-driven decisions and positions Singapore better to respond calmly to downturns.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Singapore is built to trade, not to hide” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”32px” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.lionsworld.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Singapore-global-trade-connectivity.avif” alt=”Singapore\u2019s global trade connectivity supports businesses with strong access to regional and international markets” title_text=”Singapore global trade connectivity” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”860px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Crucially, one of Singapore\u2019s main strengths is structural. It\u2019s not just about one strong quarter, but about how the country is set up for trade and resilience over the long term.<\/p>\n Start with import duties. Singapore Customs states<\/a> that duty applies only to intoxicating liquors, tobacco products, motor vehicles and petroleum products<\/strong>. Most other goods are non-dutiable<\/strong>. When tariffs can suddenly squeeze margins, that is an advantage.<\/p>\n Singapore\u2019s trade deal network is another strength. MTI\u2019s official FTA page<\/a> states that Singapore has concluded 28 agreements with major partners and blocs, including the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, the CPTPP, RCEP, and the Singapore-India CECA<\/strong>. These deals make it easier for Singapore-based firms to reach overseas markets, enjoy better access, and operate with more certainty.<\/p>\n This is why Singapore serves as a springboard, offering businesses access not just to a domestic market, but to multiple pathways into the region.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f7fafc” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Singapore is also pushing forward on AI” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”32px” title_letter_spacing=”-1px” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Equally important, Singapore isn\u2019t only protecting established strengths. It is also actively preparing for future opportunities.<\/p>\n Singapore\u2019s National AI Strategy 2.0<\/strong><\/a> says its vision is \u201cAI for the Public Good\u201d<\/strong>. That may sound broad, but the direction is clear: the country wants AI to be useful, trusted and practical for businesses and workers, not just something discussed at conferences.<\/p>\n Singapore has also been early in building trust around AI. AI Verify<\/strong><\/a>, launched by IMDA and PDPC, was designed as a testing framework and toolkit to help companies show that their AI systems are being used responsibly and transparently.<\/p>\n More importantly for everyday business, the push is now moving into real adoption. On 2 March 2026, IMDA announced the National AI Impact Programme<\/strong><\/a>. It said 14.5% of SMEs<\/strong> had adopted AI in 2024, up from<\/strong> 4.2% in 2023<\/strong>. This growing adoption allows more businesses to improve efficiency, decision-making, and competitiveness by integrating AI in practical ways. The new programme aims to support 10,000 enterprises<\/strong> over the next three years and help 100,000 workers<\/strong> become more confident using AI in their day-to-day work.<\/p>\n This action-oriented approach means Singapore is actively translating new technology into practical business value, rather than simply generating excitement.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.lionsworld.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/businesses-adopt-practical-and-trusted-technology-solutions.avif” alt=”Singapore\u2019s economic growth momentum in 2025 strengthened confidence for businesses and investors” title_text=”businesses adopt practical and trusted technology solutions” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”860px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Competitive tax rates and easy day-to-day communication” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”32px” title_line_height=”1.2em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.6em” max_width=”720px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Tax is not the only reason businesses choose Singapore, but it is important. Singapore\u2019s corporate income tax rate is a flat 17%<\/strong>, which is competitive with other business hubs<\/a>. For comparison, Hong Kong\u2019s corporate profits tax<\/a> is 8.25% on the first HK$2 million, then 16.5% on any amount above that<\/strong>. Malaysia\u2019s general company tax rate is 24%<\/strong>. While Singapore may not always offer the lowest rate, it appeals with its competitive tax rate, policy stability, and strong regional and global access.<\/p>\n In addition, overseas founders quickly notice a practical advantage: English is Singapore\u2019s working language<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Government sources state this clearly. Unlike many hubs, where multiple languages create complexity, Singapore uses English for business, contracts, banking, official processes, and workplace communication. International business owners can set up and operate with less friction from day one.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#eaf2f8″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”With these factors in mind, it\u2019s worth asking: what should founders and SMEs do next?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|700||on|||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”32px” title_line_height=”1.15em” max_width=”860px” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||5px||false|false” custom_padding=”||5px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nThe bad news is real.
But it is not the full picture.<\/h2>\n