Why Beijing Entrepreneurs Prefer Registering Companies in Singapore A Guide to Benefits and Registration Process

Why Do Beijing Entrepreneurs Prefer Registering Companies in Singapore? A Comprehensive Analysis of Advantages and Procedures

In recent years, with the continuous promotion of China’s mass entrepreneurship and innovation policy, Beijing, as the national center for science and technology innovation, has seen a growing entrepreneurial atmosphere. However, as domestic market competition intensifies and globalization accelerates, an increasing number of Beijing entrepreneurs are turning their attention overseas, particularly to Southeast Asia. Among the international business destinations, Singapore has become a preferred choice for many Beijing entrepreneurs to establish overseas companies due to its stable political and economic environment, strategic geographic location, and efficient business ecosystem.

According to the latest data released by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA of Singapore, new business registrations in 2025 increased by nearly 12% year-on-year. Chinese enterprises, especially those in the technology, cross-border e-commerce, and financial services sectors, accounted for a significant portion of this growth. As a hub for technological innovation in China, Beijing entrepreneurs represent a substantial share of those registering companies in Singapore.

So, why has registering a company in Singapore become a preferred option for Beijing entrepreneurs? What advantages and procedures are worth understanding?

1. Key Advantages of Establishing a Company in Singapore

1.1 Favorable Tax Policy

Singapore’s tax system is known for its simplicity, transparency, and low tax rates. The maximum corporate income tax rate is 17%, significantly lower than China’s standard 25%. Singapore follows a territorial tax principle, meaning it only taxes income generated within its borders, and income earned overseas can be legally remitted back tax-free. For startups, there are tax exemption schemes for the first three years, significantly reducing operational costs.

1.2 Excellent Business Environment

Singapore has consistently ranked high in global business environment rankings. According to the World Bank’s 2025 Doing Business Report, Singapore excels in indicators such as ease of starting a business, access to credit, and contract enforcement. The registration process is efficient and convenient, with company incorporation often completed within a single day. The regulatory environment is transparent and efficient.

1.3 Mature Financial System

As one of the world’s leading financial centers, Singapore offers a robust financial regulatory framework and a wide range of financial services. After establishing a company in Singapore, entrepreneurs can easily open multi-currency bank accounts, facilitating international fund management and settlement. With minimal foreign exchange controls, capital flows are flexible-especially beneficial for companies engaged in international trade and cross-border operations.

1.4 Strategic Access to Global Markets

Located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a crucial hub connecting China, ASEAN, Europe, and the United States. Since the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership RCEP, Singapore’s role as a regional trade center has been further strengthened. By setting up a company in Singapore, Beijing entrepreneurs can more easily access the Southeast Asian market and enhance their brand’s global recognition through Singapore’s international reputation.

1.5 Innovation-Friendly Policies

Singapore places high importance on technology and innovation industries and has launched multiple support programs, such as Startup SG and the RD Tax Incentive Scheme, to encourage the growth of tech startups. These policies are particularly attractive to high-tech entrepreneurs from Beijing.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Company in Singapore

Although the process may seem complex at first, registering a company in Singapore is straightforward once you understand the steps involved. Below is a typical registration procedure

2.1 Determine Company Structure

The most common structure for small and medium enterprises in Singapore is the Private Limited Company. Other options include branches and representative offices, which entrepreneurs can choose based on their needs.

2.2 Name Approval

Before registration, entrepreneurs must submit a company name application through ACRA’s official website to ensure the name is available. The approval process usually takes about one day.

2.3 Submit Registration Documents

Required documents typically include

Company Constitution Articles of Association

Identity proofs of shareholders and directors

Registered office address

Information about the company secretary

At least one local director is required, which can be provided through a professional service provider.

2.4 Open a Corporate Bank Account

After successful registration, entrepreneurs can open a business bank account in Singapore. Some banks offer remote account opening options, making it convenient for overseas entrepreneurs.

2.5 Apply for Relevant Licenses

If the company operates in a regulated industry such as food services, finance, or education, it must apply for the necessary licenses from the relevant authorities.

2.6 Tax Registration and Compliance Reporting

Following registration, entrepreneurs must complete tax registration within the stipulated timeframe and submit annual financial audits and tax filings.

The entire process generally takes 5 to 10 working days. Entrepreneurs can also choose to engage professional agencies to handle the registration, saving time and effort.

3. The Strategic Thinking Behind Beijing Entrepreneurs’ Choices

From the perspective of Beijing entrepreneurs, choosing to register a company in Singapore is not merely about tax savings and policy incentives-it is a strategic decision for global business expansion. In industries such as cross-border e-commerce, SaaS Software as a Service, and fintech, Singapore serves as a critical gateway between China and the global market.

For example, in 2025, a Beijing-based AI startup, Zhijian Technology, established a subsidiary in Singapore. Leveraging Singapore’s mature tech ecosystem and supportive policies, the company quickly gained access to the Southeast Asian market. The founder stated in an interview Singapore is not only our gateway to international markets but also a key platform for attracting global investment. Its strong intellectual property protection system provides a solid legal foundation for tech startups.

In today’s increasingly competitive global landscape, Beijing entrepreneurs choosing Singapore is both a strategic move for growth and a proactive adaptation to international rules.

4. Conclusion

The popularity of registering companies in Singapore among Beijing entrepreneurs results from a combination of favorable policies, tax benefits, financial convenience, and open markets. These factors together create a highly attractive entrepreneurial environment. For Beijing entrepreneurs aiming to expand internationally and enhance their competitiveness, Singapore offers an ideal option.

As Sino-Singaporean economic and trade cooperation continues to deepen, more and more Beijing-based companies are expected to use Singapore as a springboard to enter global markets and unlock broader development opportunities.