Top Benefits of Starting a Business in Singapore for Taiwanese Entrepreneurs

For entrepreneurs in Taiwan seeking to expand into the global market, Singapore stands out as one of the best destinations in Asia. With its stable political environment, attractive tax structure, world-class infrastructure, and open business ecosystem, Singapore has become a preferred base for many Taiwanese companies aiming to reach Southeast Asia and beyond.

This article explores the top benefits of starting a business in Singapore for Taiwanese entrepreneurs, covering everything from strategic advantages and taxation benefits to innovation opportunities and lifestyle perks.

1. Strategic Location at the Heart of Asia

Singapore’s geographical position makes it a natural business hub for Asia-Pacific. Located between China, India, and Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a gateway to over 600 million consumers across the ASEAN region.

For Taiwanese businesses targeting emerging markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, Singapore offers logistical efficiency and excellent connectivity through Changi Airport and its world-class seaport.

Moreover, with its time zone aligning conveniently between Asia and Europe, Singapore enables companies to coordinate global operations smoothly — an essential advantage for Taiwanese exporters, manufacturers, and service providers.

2. Low and Competitive Corporate Tax System

Singapore offers one of the most favorable tax regimes in the world. The corporate tax rate is only 17%, and new start-ups enjoy generous exemptions under the Start-Up Tax Exemption Scheme (SUTE).

Additionally, Singapore has no capital gains tax and no tax on dividends, allowing business owners to retain more of their profits.

For Taiwanese entrepreneurs, another major advantage is the Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between Singapore and Taiwan, ensuring income earned in Singapore isn’t taxed again in Taiwan. This promotes smoother financial management for cross-border operations and increases profitability for companies expanding overseas.

3. Ease of Doing Business

Singapore consistently ranks among the world’s top nations for ease of doing business, according to the World Bank.

Company incorporation is incredibly efficient: foreign-owned companies can be set up within one working day through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The process is digital, transparent, and requires minimal bureaucracy.

Foreign entrepreneurs can own 100% of their Singapore company, and the minimum paid-up capital required is just SGD 1.

This simplicity appeals strongly to Taiwanese business owners familiar with the fast-paced corporate world, as it allows them to focus on operations and market expansion instead of administrative hurdles.

4. Stable Political and Legal Environment

Political stability is a cornerstone of Singapore’s success. The government is highly regarded for its efficiency, transparency, and pro-business policies.

The legal system is based on English common law, which provides a familiar and trusted foundation for entrepreneurs. Contracts are enforceable, intellectual property is well-protected, and regulations are predictable and fair.

For Taiwanese companies accustomed to dealing with complex regional politics, Singapore’s stability provides a secure and neutral base to manage regional operations.

5. Strong Singapore–Taiwan Economic Relations

Singapore and Taiwan share a robust economic relationship built on trade, investment, and cultural ties. Taiwan is one of Singapore’s major trading partners, and both countries maintain active business engagement through platforms such as the Singapore-Taiwan Business Association (STBA).

Many Taiwanese companies — especially in electronics, manufacturing, and technology — already use Singapore as their Southeast Asian or international headquarters. This existing ecosystem makes it easier for new Taiwanese entrepreneurs to network, collaborate, and expand effectively.

6. Government Support and Business Incentives

Singapore’s government is known for actively supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. Through various funding and grant schemes, businesses — including foreign-owned ones — can access financial assistance to grow.

Some of the most relevant programs include:

• Enterprise Development Grant (EDG): Supports companies that want to improve innovation, business capabilities, or expand overseas.

• Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant: Helps businesses defray costs when entering overseas markets, such as market promotion or market set-up expenses.

• Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG): Co-funds the purchase of digital and productivity-enhancing tools.

Taiwanese entrepreneurs setting up in Singapore can leverage these schemes to reduce initial costs, especially when using Singapore as a springboard into other ASEAN markets.

7. Access to a Skilled and English-Proficient Workforce

Singapore’s workforce is one of the most competitive in Asia, with high levels of education, technical expertise, and professionalism. English is the main language of business, which eliminates communication barriers for Taiwanese entrepreneurs working with international partners.

In addition, Singapore’s multicultural workforce includes many bilingual individuals fluent in both Mandarin and English — a major advantage for Taiwanese business owners expanding in the region.

The government’s ongoing initiatives, such as SkillsFuture, ensure the local talent pool remains equipped with the latest digital and technical skills, supporting industries like tech, finance, and logistics.

8. World-Class Infrastructure and Logistics

Singapore offers one of the most advanced infrastructures in the world. The country’s transportation systems, telecommunications, and logistics networks are globally recognized for their efficiency.

The Port of Singapore ranks among the busiest and most efficient globally, and Changi Airport is a multi-award-winning aviation hub with direct flights to major Asian, European, and American cities.

For Taiwanese companies involved in international trade, Singapore’s infrastructure ensures smooth operations, efficient shipping, and minimal supply chain disruptions.

9. Thriving Innovation and Start-Up Ecosystem

Singapore has become Asia’s Silicon Valley, attracting start-ups, venture capitalists, and multinational corporations.

Government-backed innovation hubs such as JTC LaunchPad @ one-north and Block71 foster collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and research institutions.

For Taiwanese start-ups in fintech, electronics, AI, or biotech, Singapore offers access to funding, mentorship, and a vibrant innovation culture. The Smart Nation initiative and Digital Economy Framework further promote technology adoption and global competitiveness.

10. Strong Intellectual Property Protection

Protecting innovation is crucial, especially for Taiwanese companies in technology and manufacturing sectors. Singapore’s Intellectual Property Office (IPOS) offers comprehensive protection for patents, trademarks, and copyrights, ranking among the best globally for IP protection.

Businesses can confidently innovate and develop new products in Singapore, knowing their intellectual assets are safeguarded under international standards — an essential factor for R&D-heavy industries.

11. Transparent Immigration and Visa Policies

Singapore makes it easy for foreign entrepreneurs to relocate and run their businesses. The main visa options include:

• EntrePass: Designed for innovative entrepreneurs starting venture-backed or tech-driven businesses.

• Employment Pass (EP): For professionals or business owners employed in Singapore.

• Dependant Pass (DP): For family members accompanying the primary visa holder.

These structured immigration policies ensure that Taiwanese entrepreneurs and their families can settle comfortably while operating their business ventures.

12. Strong Banking and Financial Ecosystem

Singapore’s position as a leading financial centre offers numerous advantages. The country hosts over 150 international banks and provides easy access to multi-currency accounts, international transfers, and investment services.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) regulates the industry with a focus on both stability and innovation. This makes Singapore a top destination for fintech firms, financial consultants, and investors from Taiwan who require a reliable and secure environment for capital management.

13. Focus on Sustainability and Green Business Opportunities

Singapore is rapidly positioning itself as a global leader in sustainability. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 drives investment into renewable energy, green finance, and eco-friendly innovation.

Taiwanese businesses with expertise in sustainable manufacturing, energy-efficient technology, or green product design will find strong alignment with Singapore’s national goals and numerous opportunities for collaboration.

This focus on sustainability not only supports global environmental goals but also enhances brand reputation for companies based in Singapore.

14. High Quality of Life and Safety

Beyond its business advantages, Singapore offers one of the highest standards of living in Asia. The city-state is safe, clean, and well-organized, with world-class healthcare, education, and housing.

For Taiwanese entrepreneurs and their families, relocation is made easier with the availability of top international schools, excellent public transportation, and a vibrant cultural environment.

The combination of professional opportunity and lifestyle quality makes Singapore not just a business destination but a home for long-term success.

15. Networking and Regional Collaboration Opportunities

Singapore’s international business community is diverse and dynamic. There are numerous chambers of commerce and trade associations where Taiwanese entrepreneurs can network, find partners, and explore collaborations.

The Singapore-Taiwan Business Association (STBA), for example, actively facilitates trade and investment discussions between both nations. In addition, networking platforms like Enterprise Singapore, AmCham, and industry events provide access to decision-makers, investors, and regional business leaders.

Such a network-rich environment gives Taiwanese companies the connections needed to thrive and expand beyond their domestic market.

Conclusion

For Taiwanese entrepreneurs, Singapore offers the ideal foundation for business expansion into Asia and the world. With its low taxes, transparent governance, strategic location, and thriving innovation ecosystem, it provides both security and opportunity.

Whether you’re a technology start-up, manufacturer, or service provider, Singapore enables you to scale efficiently, access new markets, and operate in a predictable and business-friendly environment.

Starting a business in Singapore is not just a smart move — it’s a strategic step toward global growth, innovation, and long-term success for Taiwanese entrepreneurs.