Why is Singapore Adhering to BEPS 2.0?
The Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) rules under BEPS 2.0 address tax competition between countries. For many years, large companies have shifted profits to low-tax locations. This led countries to continually drop their rates to win business, cutting tax income everywhere in a “race to the bottom”.
Major economies like the European Union, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Hong Kong will apply these rules by 2025. Without similar action, Singapore would see MNEs pay the 15% minimum tax anyway – but with that money going overseas instead of staying in the local economy.
By adhering to the BEPS 2.0 standards, Singapore retains these tax funds and uses them to build its business foundations. The money will boost workforce training, research capabilities, and physical and digital infrastructure – with benefits spreading across the economy.
The New Tax Framework
Singapore will introduce two distinct taxes to meet BEPS 2.0 standards: the Domestic Top-up Tax (DTT) and the Multinational Enterprise Top-up Tax (MTT). Both taxes focus on large MNEs that generate annual group revenues of at least €750 million (S$1.1 billion) over two of the past four financial years.
DTT
The DTT applies to Singapore-based parts of these large MNE groups. The DTT makes up the difference if an MNE group pays less than 15% tax on its Singapore profits. This keeps the tax benefits in Singapore rather than letting other countries claim them.
MTT
The MTT works differently – it applies to Singapore-headquartered MNE groups with international operations. When these groups pay less than 15% tax in other countries, Singapore collects the extra amount needed to reach 15%. This means Singapore captures tax revenue that would otherwise go to other countries.
Benefits
These taxes create an intelligent system. Singapore gets to keep more tax revenue while offering attractive rates below the regional average of approximately 22.5%. The rules stay simple: nothing changes if a company already pays 15% or more. If they pay less, Singapore collects the difference – before another country can take it.
As expected, Singapore plans well ahead for businesses worried about higher costs. The government will return this extra tax money to improve business operations.
This includes upgrading workforce skills, innovation infrastructure, and building better company connections. The result will be a stronger business base that helps companies grow beyond relying on tax advantages.
Supporting Businesses Through Transition
The Singapore government acknowledges companies’ challenges with BEPS 2.0 and has promised specific support measures.
Key Business Concerns
- Registration and record-keeping burdens on smaller entities
- Resource strain on local MNE subsidiaries
- Higher compliance costs
- Administrative complexity
Special Considerations
Parliament discussed specific support needs:
- Grace periods for exceptional circumstances
- Extra guidance where needed
- 15-month filing period after financial year-end
- Systems to help with registration requirements
Government Response
Second Minister for Finance Indranee Rajah assured Parliament that there will be appropriate guidance for businesses when it is time to implement the DTT and MTT. She added that the additional revenue would be reinvested wisely to enhance Singapore’s competitiveness.
Singapore’s Competitive Edge
The 15% minimum tax rate still sits well below the regional average across Singapore’s ASEAN neighbours. This tax difference and Singapore’s stable political climate and strong legal framework keep its appeal strong for global companies.
But the real value extends past tax rates. Singapore will use the new tax income to improve its business strengths. This includes:
Better Skills Development
- Direct funding for worker training programmes
- Support for technology adoption and skills upgrades
- Investment in local talent pools
Innovation Growth
- More backing for research and development
- Support for new technology testing and adoption
- Resources for business model updates
Infrastructure Improvements
- Enhanced digital networks
- Investments into healthcare
- Better physical connections
- Modern facilities for businesses
Future Outlook and Opportunities
BEPS 2.0 brings new possibilities for Singapore’s business growth beyond tax collection. The changes open paths to stronger international partnerships and better business systems.
International Cooperation
The unified tax approach puts Singapore at the centre of global business standards. As more countries join this tax agreement, Singapore’s role in international trade strengthens. This builds on existing trade partnerships and opens new ones.
Better Business Systems
The tax updates push for better ways to handle company information and reporting. This means:
- Updated tax management systems
- Better data analysis abilities
- More exact financial tracking
- Smarter reporting tools
Economic Stability
A standard 15% rate creates stability that attracts long-term business investment. Companies can now make plans based on fixed tax costs rather than changing rates between countries. This stability makes Singapore more attractive for lasting business relationships.
Professional Growth
Tax experts in Singapore will gain new skills to manage these global standards. This adds to Singapore’s professional knowledge base and makes it an even more valuable business partner for international companies.
Where to Next With InCorp
Singapore’s adoption of BEPS 2.0 shows its skill at turning global standards into local advantages. By taking control of these tax changes, Singapore keeps revenue inside its borders and puts that money back into improving business infrastructure.
The 15% rate gives companies cost certainty while keeping Singapore’s tax advantage against regional rates above 20%. The government’s plans for strong transitional and tax compliance support add another positive factor. Strong administrative systems, practical guidance, and business help programmes will make these changes smooth for companies.
This fits Singapore’s pattern of backing policy updates with real business support. This mix of stable taxes and stronger business support creates real value for companies looking ahead. Singapore builds on its advantages – adding better worker skills, updated systems, and modern infrastructure to its already substantial business base.
FAQs about BEPS 2.0
- What is BEPS 2.0?
- BEPS 2.0 sets a 15% minimum tax rate for large multinational companies. In Singapore, it affects MNEs with annual revenues over €750 million, starting January 2025.
- What are the two taxes introduced by Singapore to meet BEPS 2.0 standards?
- Singapore will introduce two distinct taxes: the Domestic Top-up Tax (DTT) and the Multinational Enterprise Top-up Tax (MTT). Both taxes focus on large MNEs that generate annual group revenues of at least €750 million (S$1.1 billion) over two of the past four financial years.
- What kind of support does the government provide for businesses affected by BEPS 2.0?
- The government promises guidance systems, administrative support, and help with compliance requirements, plus grace periods and extended filing times.
About the Author
Mabel Ng has over two decades of experience in direct and indirect taxation, honed across various environments, including the Big 4 accounting firms, mid-tier firms, and industry roles. She is an ISCA member, FCCA, and an SCTP Accredited Tax Practitioner.
