Raffles Consulting Services

Corporate and International Tax Consulting

Singapore corporate tax consulting aligned with transactions, operating models, cross-border flows, transfer pricing, GST and supporting evidence.

Start with the transaction and operating facts

Singapore corporate tax consulting: first identify the income, expenses, people, contracts, assets and cross-border flows. The statutory rate is only one part of the result. Tax residence, exemptions, incentives, foreign tax relief, transfer pricing, GST and withholding tax can change both the liability and the supporting records required.

In practice, the tax position should follow the business. A regional headquarters needs evidence of control, people and decision-making. A related-party service charge needs a commercial basis, a clear benefit and suitable pricing support. Similarly, a foreign-income exemption or treaty claim needs the relevant statutory conditions and documents.

Timing matters as well. For example, transaction terms should be reviewed before contracts are signed, while filing and payment obligations need an annual calendar. In addition, major changes in ownership, financing, functions or jurisdictions should trigger a fresh review rather than wait for the next tax return.

Where a matter requires legal interpretation, transaction documents, dispute representation or a formal opinion, we coordinate with Singapore law firms and other suitable specialists. This keeps the advice connected to implementation and the actual evidence available.

Singapore and cross-border tax

Singapore’s headline corporate income tax rate is 17%, but the effective position depends on the company’s income, exemptions, incentives, foreign tax relief, expenses, related-party transactions and operating substance. We help management understand the choices, documentation and implementation implications. Where a matter requires legal interpretation, transaction documents, dispute representation or a formal legal opinion, we coordinate with Singapore law firms whose lawyers have the relevant tax, corporate or disputes speciality.

Areas we cover

Corporate taxTax position reviews, exemptions, incentives, loss utilisation and transaction support.
International taxResidence, permanent establishments, treaties, withholding tax and foreign-sourced income.
Transfer pricingRelated-party arrangements, arm’s-length support, documentation and operational alignment.
GST and transactionsRegistration, 9% GST implications, place-of-supply issues and deal structuring.

Rules that need active attention

  • Singapore tax residence is based on control and management, not just incorporation.
  • Foreign-sourced income exemptions are conditional and require evidence.
  • Section 10L can apply to certain foreign asset disposal gains received in Singapore.
  • Transfer-pricing positions should match contracts, conduct and value creation.
  • Pillar Two rules may affect in-scope multinational groups.

Corporate and International Tax Consulting guides and articles

Explore related practical guidance from Raffles Consulting Services.