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Global Trader Programme in Singapore

Expand your international trading business with Singapore’s Global Trader Programme (GTP). This government initiative offers tax incentives and a supportive regulatory framework, making Singapore a hub for global trading companies. With our expertise, you can apply seamlessly, meet eligibility requirements, and maximise the benefits of operating under the GTP.

Who We’ve Worked With

Global Trader Programme (GTP) – Overview

This replacement of AOT and AIT and launching a comprehensive GTP enabled businesses to trade a bigger product portfolio including both energy and non-energy products and goods. Previously, AOT was only meant for the energy trading, and AIT catered to non-energy as it offered agri-goods, metals and chemicals.

As of now, over 270 organizations carry the GTP status in Singapore and take advantage of the concessionary tax rate on eligible trade income. These businesses have gained due to Singapore’s great location and its proximity to consumer markets and raw material.

Key Features of GTP

Wider Coverage

Includes petroleum, agri-goods, metals, chemicals, machinery, consumer goods, electronics, and industrial supplies.

Tax Incentives

Approved GTP companies enjoy a concessionary tax rate of 5% or 10% on eligible offshore trading income.

Derivative Instruments

The scope now covers all qualifying derivative instruments (since YA 2012).

Wider Coverage

Includes petroleum, agri-goods, metals, chemicals, machinery, consumer goods, electronics, and industrial supplies.

Tax Incentives

Approved GTP companies enjoy a concessionary tax rate of 5% or 10% on eligible offshore trading income.

Derivative Instruments

The scope now covers all qualifying derivative instruments (since YA 2012).

Sunset Clause

New scheme-level sunset date set at 31 March 2021, aligning all GTP enhancements.

Award Tenure

Companies can benefit for up to five years once approved as a GTP company or as a GTP (Structured Commodity Finance) entity.

Sunset Clause

New scheme-level sunset date set at 31 March 2021, aligning all GTP enhancements.

Award Tenure

Companies can benefit for up to five years once approved as a GTP company or as a GTP (Structured Commodity Finance) entity.

Eligible Product Categories under GTP

Eligibility for the Singapore Global Trader Programme (GTP)

Global Trader Programme (GTP) – Eligibility & Requirements

Category	Details
Initial & Renewable Status	3-Year Non-Renewable Status: For new entrants starting trading operations in Singapore. 5-Year Renewable Status: Granted if sustainable growth and trading networks are established during the initial phase.
Trade Coverage	Offshore Trade: Products not passing through Singapore. Trans-shipment: Cargo moved between transport modes. Re-Export: Only non-value-added re-export activities qualify.
Core Application Criteria	Significant offshore trading turnover (principal basis). Substantial local business expenditure. Employment of professional traders in Singapore.
Additional Requirements	Comprehensive business plan. Use of Singapore’s financial, trade, and logistics services. Contribution to resource training & trading expertise. Singapore used as a regional hub for: Product development Market research Quality management Sales & marketing Procurement & financing Logistics & warehousing Risk management HR development
Eligibility Conditions	Mid to large-sized international firms engaged in trading, procurement, and distribution. Proven international track record & global network. Must set up a regional office in Singapore (covering marketing, finance, treasury, admin, logistics).
Financial Thresholds	Minimum annual turnover: S$100 million. Minimum local expenditure: S$3 million. At least 3 professional traders employed (local or foreign) in sales, marketing, or risk management.
Qualifying Companies	Singapore-registered company approved as a Global Trading Company. Or, a 100% owned subsidiary of an approved Global Trading Company. Tax benefits apply only to income from qualifying commodities.

Steps to Apply for Singapore Global Trader Program (GTP)

1. Check Eligibility

Ensure your company meets the trading scale, turnover, and Singapore presence criteria.

2. Prepare Documents

Gather financials, business plan, trading details, and company profile.

3. Submit Application

File the application with Enterprise Singapore along with required documents.

4. Assessment

EnterpriseSG reviews trading scale, growth plans, and economic contribution.

5. Approval & Agreement

Sign the GTP agreement outlining obligations and commitments.

6. Receive Tax Incentives

Enjoy concessionary corporate tax rates on qualifying trading income.

7. Maintain Compliance

Provide annual reports and meet ongoing trading, spending, and headcount conditions.

Why Choose IMC for Global Trader Programme?

Proven Cross-Border Expertise

With years of experience in international trade, compliance, and structuring, IMC guides businesses through the complexities of qualifying for and maintaining GTP status.

End-to-End Advisory

From preparing eligibility documentation and business plans to coordinating with Singapore authorities, our team ensures a smooth application and approval process.

Sector Knowledge Across Commodities

We have supported clients trading in energy, agri-products, metals, machinery, and consumer goods, giving us an edge in aligning your business model with GTP requirements.

Proven Cross-Border Expertise

With years of experience in international trade, compliance, and structuring, IMC guides businesses through the complexities of qualifying for and maintaining GTP status.

End-to-End Advisory

From preparing eligibility documentation and business plans to coordinating with Singapore authorities, our team ensures a smooth application and approval process.

Sector Knowledge Across Commodities

We have supported clients trading in energy, agri-products, metals, machinery, and consumer goods, giving us an edge in aligning your business model with GTP requirements.

Tax and Compliance Guidance

Our specialists help maximize the benefits of the concessionary 5% or 10% tax rates while maintaining compliance with Singapore’s financial and regulatory standards.

Strategic Regional Positioning

We assist companies in setting up Singapore as their trading hub, integrating procurement, financing, logistics, and risk management to strengthen global operations.