Singapore has a highly developed free-market economy with dirigiste characteristics. Despite its small size, Singapore has achieved remarkable economic success thanks to several key factors.
Strategic Location Powers Singapore as Regional Trading and Transportation Hub
One major factor is Singapore’s strategic location, which has made it a vital trading and transportation hub in Southeast Asia. This location at the crossroads of global shipping lanes has supercharged Singapore’s economic growth.
Good Governance and Pro-Business Policies Attract Multinational Corporations
In addition, Singapore’s competent governance and favorable business climate have created ideal conditions for investment and commerce, enticing numerous multinational firms to base their regional HQs in the country.
Corporate Taxes Comprise Significant Share of Total Government Revenue
The Singapore government’s total revenue is estimated at S$69 billion as of Q3 2023. Corporate taxes make up a substantial 24.6% share of this revenue from April to October 2021. Overall, taxes – including income tax, property tax, and goods and services tax (GST) – make up the bulk of Singapore’s revenue.
Financial Services, Manufacturing and Emerging Industries Anchor Economy
Singapore’s financial services sector facilitates knowledge, process, tech and skill transfer between global and local markets, playing a vital economic role. Manufacturing and services remain twin pillars of Singapore’s high value-added economy. Emerging industries like aerospace, clean energy and healthcare also buoy the economy.
Oil and Biopharma Industries Strengthen Economic Diversification
Having established itself as a top Asian oil trading center, Singapore’s oil sector constitutes 5% of GDP. The biopharma industry has tripled in value over 20 years to USD 18 billion annually, diversifying the manufacturing base.
Government Investment in Defense, Infrastructure and Environment
On the expenditure side, over half of the government operating budget goes towards social security and external relations including defense and domestic security. Significant investments also fund infrastructure upgrades and environmental sustainability.
In summary, Singapore’s strategic location, governance, pro-business climate, corporate taxes and diverse industries spanning financial services, manufacturing and oil have powered its economic success. Government revenues are reinvested to strengthen defense, communities and the environment.