7 Things Every Chinese Entrepreneur Must Know Before Setting Up a Singapore Company

Expanding your business overseas? Singapore has become a top choice for Chinese entrepreneurs—but doing it the right way matters.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to set up your company efficiently.

Step 1: Choose Your Company Type

Most foreign entrepreneurs go for a Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd). Why? It offers limited liability, credibility with investors, and flexibility to expand internationally.

Step 2: Reserve a Company Name

Your company name must be unique, relevant, and approved by ACRA.

Reserving it early avoids delays and helps you build a strong brand from the start.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Have these ready to speed up incorporation:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors

• Residential addresses

• Brief description of business activities

• Company constitution (can be standard or customized)

Step 4: Incorporate Your Company

You can file online through ACRA, but professional services make it smoother:

• Handle all document filings

• Draft the company constitution

• Provide a local resident director if needed

  
  

This ensures compliance and saves you time.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Singapore banks require:

• Proof of incorporation

• Director and shareholder info

• Board resolution

Some banks even allow digital onboarding—great if you’re setting up from abroad.

Step 6: Comply with Ongoing Requirements

Stay on top of:

• Annual filings with ACRA

• Corporate tax submissions with IRAS

• Maintaining a registered office and company records

Professional services can handle this for you, so you can focus on your business.

Step 7: Leverage Singapore as Your Global Hub

With your company set up, Singapore offers:

• Easy access to Southeast Asia, India, and beyond

• Low corporate taxes and strong IP protection

• Access to international talent and investors

Step 8: Start Growing Your Business

Now you can focus on building your operations, expanding your network, and scaling globally—while your Singapore company provides a stable, strategic base.

Setting up a Singapore company doesn’t have to be complicated.

At Heritage Desk, we guide Chinese entrepreneurs step by step—handling incorporation, compliance, and local requirements—so you can focus on growing your business and expanding overseas.