Goods and Services Tax (GST)

GST is a consumption tax levied on the import of goods and on most supplies of goods and services made in Singapore.

Businesses with taxable turnover exceeding or expected to exceed S$1 million over a 12-month period are required to comply with the provisions of the GST Act 1993. Our team of experienced professionals provides compliance support to help businesses reduce their GST risks. For example, businesses that experience rapid growth, structural changes, or that have internal resource constraints are more susceptible to incorrect reporting of GST.

GST registration

  • Registration for GST under the appropriate GST scheme.

  • Application for exemption from GST registration.

GST compliance

Filing of quarterly GST returns

  • Prepare and file GST returns.

  • Review of GST returns prepared in-house prior to submission to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (“IRAS”).

  • Follow up with the IRAS on GST refunds.

Appeals and objections

  • File objections against tax assessments by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (“IRAS”).

  • File appeals against decisions made by the IRAS. Where necessary, we will work with tax lawyers during the process.

GST training

Conduct GST training on the requirements of GST legislation and the compliance obligations of businesses operating in Singapore.

GST health-checks

  • Conduct GST health-checks to identify GST risks.

  • Provide recommendations to comply with GST regulations.

Voluntary compliance initiatives

  • Assist with adoption of Assisted Self-Help Kit to mitigate penalties.

  • Assist to prepare for the Assisted Compliance Assurance Programme.

IRAS audits and investigations

  • Manage GST audits or investigations conducted by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (“IRAS”).

  • Assist with queries from IRAS.

  • Assist with negotiations with the IRAS on GST matters. Where necessary, we will work with tax lawyers during the process.

GST de-registration

Application for cancellation of GST registration.

GST advisory

Advise on structuring investments in the most GST-efficient manner

  • Interpretation and application of Singapore’s GST regulations.

  • GST implications of business transactions.

GST incentives

  • Advise on GST incentives and exemptions.

  • Assist in the application for special GST schemes:

    • Major Exporter Scheme

    • Approved Third Party Logistics Company Scheme

    • Approved Import GST Suspension Scheme

GST due diligence

  • Conduct GST due diligence for mergers & acquisitions transactions.

  • Advise buyers of Singapore companies with GST due diligence review.