Singapore GST
GST is Singapore’s single biggest indirect tax, deliberately kept broad so the rate stays single-digit while still funding healthcare and infrastructure. Each rate hike came with Assurance Packages and household offsets so politicians could argue the burden stays progressive, but businesses still had to reprogram POS systems overnight. Expect periodic policy reviews — if Parliament moves again, change the percentage field, not your spreadsheets.
Taxable Base
Residential sales and leases of most private homes are exempt or out-of-scope, while commercial property and serviced apartments usually attract GST. Financial services are largely exempt, embedding irrecoverable GST for banks. Digital services from overseas providers now commonly bear GST because of overseas vendor registration rules — consumers see the tax at checkout.
OVR / Imports
Low-value goods that once slipped through customs now face GST collection via registered marketplaces or direct vendor registration, mirroring OECD guidelines. Importers should reconcile shipping documents with the GST charged on marketplace invoices to avoid double taxation or missed credits.
Tourist Refunds
Eligible tourists use the electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) at Changi and cruise terminals when spending exceeds programme minimums and retailers participate. Refunds cover goods physically exported — not hotel stays or restaurant meals consumed locally.
B2B quotes vs retail shelf prices
Consultants quote S$10,000 + 9% = S$10,900; shoppers see S$10.90 inclusive at FairPrice. Flip between modes: “Price before tax” for invoices, “Total includes tax” for receipts. The rate field stays at 9 unless IRAS announces another change.