Doing Business in Singapore VS Sri Lanka – A Comparison
Entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand their businesses in Asia often face a tough decision when choosing between two promising destinations: Singapore and Sri Lanka. Both countries offer unique advantages, making the choice challenging. While Singapore is renowned for its competitive business environment, high quality of life, and efficient processes, Sri Lanka
provides strategic access to South Asia, a growing economy, and abundant natural resources. This article will explore the key factors to consider when deciding between these two countries.
Key Comparison Points
Business Environment
- Singapore: Known for its political stability, robust legal framework, and strong government support for businesses, Singapore offers a highly secure and predictable business environment.
- Sri Lanka: While Sri Lanka is emerging as a growing economy, its business environment is influenced by occasional political and economic challenges, though reforms are underway to improve stability.
Taxation
- Singapore: Singapore offers a low corporate tax rate of 17%, numerous tax incentives, and no capital gains tax, making it highly attractive for businesses.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka has a corporate tax rate ranging from 14% to 30%, depending on the industry, and also imposes capital gains tax, which can increase the tax burden for businesses.
Ease of Company Incorporation
- Singapore: With a streamlined incorporation process, advanced digital infrastructure, and a transparent regulatory environment, setting up a company in Singapore is fast and hassle-free.
- Sri Lanka: Incorporating a company in Sri Lanka can take longer due to bureaucratic procedures, though recent efforts have been made to digitize and simplify the process.
Cost of Living and Business Operations
- Singapore: While operational costs and living expenses in Singapore are higher, the efficiency and quality of services often justify the investment.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka offers significantly lower operational costs and living expenses, making it an attractive option for businesses with tighter budgets.
Access to Markets
- Singapore: Singapore’s strategic location, excellent global connectivity, and numerous trade agreements provide businesses with seamless access to international markets.
- Sri Lanka: Positioned as a gateway to South Asia, Sri Lanka offers access to a large and growing regional market, though global connectivity is still developing compared to Singapore.
Quick Comparison Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences for easy reference:
| Factor |
Singapore |
Sri Lanka |
| Business Environment |
Highly stable with strong government support |
Emerging economy with occasional challenges |
| Corporate Tax Rate |
17% |
14%-30% (industry-dependent) |
| Capital Gains Tax |
No |
Yes |
| Ease of Incorporation |
Streamlined and digitalized |
Improving but still bureaucratic |
| Business Costs |
Higher but justified by efficiency |
Lower and budget-friendly |
| Market Access |
Global connectivity and numerous trade agreements |
Gateway to South Asia with developing connectivity |

Benefits of Choosing 3E Accounting
Whether you’re looking to register a company in Singapore or start a business in Singapore, 3E Accounting offers unparalleled expertise and support. From seamless incorporation to comprehensive business solutions, our team ensures a hassle-free experience for entrepreneurs and investors.
Explore our Singapore company incorporation services package to understand how we can assist you. For more guidance, check out our guide to register a company in Singapore. Ready to take the next step? 3E Accounting is here to help. Contact us today to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Singapore offers a fast and efficient process for company registration, backed by a stable political environment and advanced digital infrastructure, making it more business-friendly than Sri Lanka.
Singapore has a flat corporate tax rate of 17%, while Sri Lanka’s rates vary between 14% and 30%, making company incorporation in Singapore more attractive for many businesses.
You can efficiently begin your company setup in Singapore with the support of experienced professionals like 3E Accounting.
Abigail Yu oversees executive leadership at 3E Accounting Group, leading operations, IT solutions, public relations, and digital marketing to drive business success. She holds an honors degree in Communication and New Media from the National University of Singapore and is highly skilled in crisis management, financial communication, and corporate communications.