Guides/Strategy
7 min read

Why Singapore is Perfect for Italian Startups

Strategic advantages of Singapore for Italian entrepreneurs expanding to Asia-Pacific markets.

1

Strategic Gateway to Asia

Singapore serves as the perfect launchpad for Italian companies looking to access the vast Asia-Pacific market, home to over 4 billion consumers and rapidly growing economies.

  • 4-hour flight radius covers 3.5 billion people
  • Hub for ASEAN markets (Southeast Asia)
  • Gateway to China, India, and Australia
  • Major air, sea, and digital connectivity hub
  • Time zone bridging Europe and Asia business hours
2

Tax Advantages vs Italy

Singapore's tax regime offers significant advantages compared to Italy's higher tax environment.

  • Corporate tax: 17% (Singapore) vs 24% (Italy)
  • No capital gains tax in Singapore
  • No dividend withholding tax
  • Italy-Singapore Double Tax Agreement in effect
  • Startup tax exemptions can reduce effective rate to 4.25%
  • No inheritance tax on Singapore assets
3

Access to Funding

Singapore offers extensive funding opportunities not available in Italy for early-stage startups.

  • Government grants up to SGD 500K for tech startups
  • Co-investment schemes with government matching
  • 500+ active VCs and angel investors
  • Strong ecosystem for Series A and beyond
  • No similar grant programs available in Italy
  • Faster funding cycles compared to European markets
4

Business-Friendly Environment

Singapore consistently ranks #1 for ease of doing business, with streamlined processes and minimal bureaucracy.

  • Company incorporation in 1-2 days
  • English as business language
  • Transparent regulatory framework
  • Strong rule of law and IP protection
  • Minimal corruption (ranked among world's cleanest)
  • Pro-business government policies
5

Italian Community & Support

A growing Italian business community and support infrastructure makes the transition smoother.

  • Italian Chamber of Commerce Singapore
  • Italian-speaking professional services available
  • Growing community of Italian entrepreneurs
  • Regular networking events and business forums
  • Italian Embassy commercial office support
6

Success Stories

Italian companies are already thriving in Singapore across various sectors:

  • Tech startups leveraging Asian markets
  • Fashion and luxury brands serving Asian consumers
  • F&B businesses bringing Italian cuisine to Asia
  • Financial services companies accessing Asian capital
  • Manufacturing firms using Singapore as regional HQ
7

Italy-Singapore Trade Relations

Strong bilateral ties support Italian business expansion:

  • EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA)
  • Bilateral Investment Treaty
  • Double Taxation Agreement
  • Mutual recognition of certifications in key sectors
  • Regular business missions and trade delegations

Ready to Get Started?

Let our Italian-speaking experts help you navigate Singapore's business landscape.