Setting Up a Singapore Company in China? This Guide Walks You Through the Process Benefits!

Setting Up a Singapore Company from China? Read This Guide to Unlock the Process and Benefits

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization, more and more Chinese companies have been seeking opportunities to expand overseas. Singapore, with its strategic geographical location, mature financial system, and stable business environment, has become a popular destination for Chinese entrepreneurs to establish overseas entities. Particularly in the context of global economic recovery in 2025, Singapore’s role as a hub connecting Southeast Asia and the world continues to enhance its business appeal.

This article will walk you through the detailed process and advantages of setting up a Singapore company from China, helping you seize new opportunities for international expansion.

1. Why Choose Singapore?

As one of the world’s freest economies, Singapore consistently ranks at the top of global business environment indexes. According to the World Bank’s 2025 Doing Business Report, Singapore excels in key indicators such as starting a business, obtaining credit, and cross-border trade, providing a solid foundation for attracting foreign investment.

Singapore’s tax system is simple and transparent, with a maximum corporate income tax rate of just 17%. Additionally, the country offers clear tax exemption policies for foreign-sourced income. For example, in 2025, Singapore continues to implement tax exemptions for eligible foreign dividends and profit repatriations, making it particularly attractive for Chinese companies seeking cross-border investment opportunities.

Another significant advantage is Singapore’s robust financial system. As one of Asia’s leading financial centers, Singapore offers a well-developed banking system and diverse financing channels, facilitating efficient capital management and fundraising for businesses. Moreover, convenient business travel between China and Singapore-including frequent flights and visa-friendly policies-further supports communication and collaboration between companies in both countries.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Singapore Company from China

Although registering a Singapore company involves cross-border procedures, the process is not overly complex and is supported by mature agency services. Here’s how to do it

1. Determine the Company Structure

Common types of companies in Singapore include Private Limited Pte Ltd, Branch Office, and Representative Office. The Private Limited structure is the most popular, as it provides limited liability protection and is suitable for long-term business operations.

2. Approve the Company Name

Before formal registration, submit the proposed company name to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA to ensure it is available and meets registration requirements.

3. Prepare Registration Documents

The following documents are typically required

Company Constitution Memorandum and Articles of Association

Identity and address proof of shareholders and directors

Registered address in Singapore

Appointment letter for the company secretary

Shareholding structure details

Chinese applicants can work with professional registration agents to prepare these documents. Some documents can be notarized in China before submission.

4. Submit the Registration Application

Register through ACRA’s online platform. The process usually takes 1-2 business days, after which the company will receive a Unique Entity Number UEN and relevant certificates.

5. Open a Corporate Bank Account

After registration, you can open a corporate bank account in Singapore. While some banks allow remote account opening, it is recommended that directors personally visit Singapore for the initial account setup to increase success rates.

6. Ongoing Compliance Management

Singapore companies are required to submit annual financial statements, an Annual Return, and pay taxes on time. It is advisable to engage a professional accounting firm for ongoing financial and tax management to ensure compliance.

3. Key Advantages of Registering a Singapore Company

1. Favorable Tax Regime

Singapore follows a territorial tax system, taxing only income generated within the country. Foreign-sourced income may qualify for tax exemption. In addition, Singapore has signed numerous Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements DTAs with other countries, further reducing the overall tax burden for businesses.

2. Enhanced Corporate Image

Registering a company in Singapore helps elevate a company’s international image and credibility. Many international clients and partners prefer working with entities established in mature legal environments, which is highly beneficial for Chinese companies expanding overseas.

3. Facilitates Cross-Border Investment and Financing

As a regional investment hub in Southeast Asia, Singapore enables companies to expand regionally and access capital markets. For example, many Chinese companies have established regional headquarters in Singapore to leverage its financial infrastructure for mergers, acquisitions, and business expansion.

4. Supportive Policies and Efficient Business Environment

Singapore welcomes foreign investment and offers various support policies, including startup grants and RD tax credits. The country’s high efficiency in government services-such as fully digitized processes for company registration and tax filing-saves time and reduces administrative costs.

4. How to Efficiently Register from China?

Despite the cross-border nature of the process, numerous professional service providers now offer one-stop solutions, covering company registration, secretary services, bank account opening, and accounting/tax support. Chinese entrepreneurs need only provide basic documents to complete the entire registration process-no need to travel to Singapore.

With the development of digital services, more steps can now be completed online. For instance, ACRA’s BizFile+ system supports remote registration, and some banks offer video conferencing for account opening, significantly improving efficiency.

5. Conclusion

In an increasingly globalized world, setting up a Singapore company has become a crucial strategy for Chinese enterprises expanding internationally. Singapore’s superior business environment, favorable tax policies, and robust financial system make it an ideal launchpad for global expansion.

For entrepreneurs in China, partnering with a professional agency makes the entire registration process smooth and hassle-free. If you’re considering expanding your business overseas, Singapore is definitely a top destination. Seize the opportunity, take the first step toward internationalization, and the future holds great promise.