Singapore is a relatively westernised nation, but it does have
business customs that differ from those in New Zealand. It is
important to follow them to avoid offending or alienating business
contacts.
Market Key Facts
Sources: CIA World Factbook (Currency,
Language)
www.singstat.gov.sg (Total Outbound Travellers,
Population)
| Key Source Regions/Cities |
Singapore
|
| Direct Routes into New Zealand |
Singapore - Auckland
Singapore - Christchurch |
| Airlines |
Singapore Airlines
|
| Leave Entitlement |
14-25 days per annum |
| Population |
4,999,000 (est. June 2009) |
| Languages |
English and Mandarin
|
| Currency |
Singapore Dollar (SGD) |
| Total Outbound Travellers |
4,845,604 (by air, 2008) |
| Peak Booking Periods |
February/March and August/September (during consumer travel
fairs) |
| Peak Travel Periods |
Last week of May through to end of June; for two weeks over
Chinese New Year; mid November to December |
Upcoming Events
Kiwi Link Asia 2010
Event Date: 13 - 15 Oct 2010
Location: Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel,
Singapore
Registrations Close: 20 June 2010
Doing Business in Singapore
- Singapore is relatively westernised, but it does have business
customs that differ from those in New Zealand. It is important to
follow them to avoid offending or alienating business
contacts.
- Seventy-seven per cent of the population is of Chinese origin,
14 per cent Malaysian and 7 per cent Indian. These groups have
retained their cultures and traditions.
- Singapore is largely bilingual, with English and Mandarin most
commonly spoken. Southern Chinese dialects, Malay and Tamil, are
also spoken. Singaporeans are expected to learn English, which is
considered to be the language of administration and international
business.
- Business cards are necessary in all business introductions in
Singapore. Cards should be handed over with both hands. When
receiving a card, make a point of looking at it carefully for a few
moments. This is considered a sign of respect and politeness. Dress
is generally conservative.
- Many Chinese Singaporeans have both a European name and a
Chinese name. The surname or family name usually follows the
European name. The Chinese name follows the surname, eg, Andrew Tan
Yew Meng - the surname here is Tan and the person should be
addressed as Mr Tan. However Singaporeans are also quick to drop
formalities depending on the situation and how comfortable they
feel with the person. You may then reciprocate by using their
European name.
- Pay careful attention to body language. Singaporeans do not
always express their disagreement verbally. Many are reluctant to
say 'no' because it could offend.
- Decision making can be very centralised. The smaller the
company, the more likely is the boss to decide everything. However,
even in large companies, decision making can be very
autocratic.
- Contacts are very important in Singapore and who you know
counts. Establishing personal relationships can take time. Business
lunches often help cement working relationships. Golf is a great
relationship builder. Other conversation areas include football
(European and English) and family.
- Muslims do not eat pork or drink alcohol. Strict Buddhists and
Hindus do not eat beef.
- The most popular way of gaining information is via the
internet, newspapers and travel fairs
Want to know more about doing business in Singapore?
Visit the New Zealand Trade & Enterprise
corporate website