Singapore's value-added tax on most goods and services. Currently 9% (from 1 Jan 2024). Foreign tourists can claim GST refunds via the eTRS scheme.
Goods and Services Tax is Singapore's broad-based consumption tax — a value-added tax charged on most goods and services consumed in Singapore. Currently 9% (from 1 January 2024).
GST is paid by the end consumer but collected through the supply chain. Businesses charge GST on what they sell (output tax) and reclaim GST on what they buy (input tax), remitting the net to IRAS.
Introduced in 1994 at 3%. Raised to 4% (2003), 5% (2004), 7% (2007), 8% (1 Jan 2023), 9% (1 Jan 2024).
The 2-step rise from 7% to 9% over 2023–2024 was paired with the Assurance Package and permanent GST Voucher enhancements to cushion lower-income households.
From 2023, imported low-value goods (B2C from overseas) and digital services also became subject to GST — closing the previous loophole that favoured cross-border online shopping.
Businesses with taxable turnover above S$1 million in the past 12 months must register for GST.
Voluntary registration is allowed below the threshold — useful if your customers are B2B (they can reclaim) and you want to recover input tax.
Self-employed contractors and freelancers usually fall below the threshold and don't register. If you do register, you must charge GST on your invoices.
Zero-rated: international exports, services rendered to non-residents (under conditions). GST charged at 0% but input tax still reclaimable.
Exempt: financial services (interest, life insurance), sale and lease of residential property, supply of investment-grade precious metals.
For consumers: residential rent, school fees, and most insurance premiums don't include GST. Almost everything else does.
9% from 1 January 2024 onwards. Previously 8% (2023), 7% (since 2007). The 2-step rise from 7% to 9% was paired with permanent GST Voucher enhancements and the Assurance Package to cushion lower-income households.
Financial services (interest on deposits, life insurance premiums), sale and lease of residential property, and investment-grade precious metals. Most consumer purchases (food, electronics, clothing, services) include GST.
Yes, since 2023. Imported low-value goods (under S$400) and digital services from overseas sellers are now subject to GST. Closes the previous loophole that favoured cross-border online shopping.
Mandatory registration if taxable turnover exceeded S$1 million in the past 12 months. Voluntary registration is allowed below the threshold — useful for B2B businesses whose customers can reclaim input GST.