What is specific to Singapore companies
Singapore groups also compare a mainland Indian subsidiary with a GIFT City unit for fund management, fintech or treasury. Holding India directly or through a Singapore company is a separate decision driven by substance and treaty access.
Many groups hold India through a Singapore company; substance and the treaty's anti-abuse rules decide whether benefits hold.
How the Singapore side affects the choice
Singapore generally exempts foreign dividends received by resident companies where conditions are met, and has no capital gains tax.
Our services
How SU and Company helps
We compare the options against the Singapore parent's plans and give a written recommendation before any filing.
- Activity and FDI route check
- Tax comparison of subsidiary and branch
- Eligibility check for branch or liaison office approval
- Joint venture shareholding and FEMA pricing points
Questions
Is a branch office a good option for a Singapore company?
Only for a narrow, approved activity. A branch is taxed at the foreign company rate and exposes the parent directly, so most groups prefer a subsidiary.
General information as at 5 November 2026, not advice for a particular case. Indian and Singapore rules change often; confirm the current position before acting. Singapore law points should be confirmed with a Singapore adviser.