Singapore is one of the largest sources of foreign investment into India and a leading seat for India-related arbitration. We advise Singapore-based groups, funds and law firms on Indian investments and on India-related disputes.
Who we act for
Singapore holding companies of Indian businesses, private equity and venture funds, family offices, Singapore law firms and in-house teams across ASEAN.
Inbound
- Investment into India through Singapore holding structures
- Beneficial-ownership screening and Press Note 3 approvals
- Registration as Foreign Portfolio Investor or Foreign Venture Capital Investor
- Enforcement in India of SIAC and other Singapore-seated awards, and interim relief from Indian courts
- Reverse flipping of Singapore holding companies into India before an Indian listing
Outbound
- Overseas investment by Indian groups into Singapore holding companies
- Indian-law advice in SIAC arbitrations
- GIFT City structures as an alternative or complement to Singapore
Current position
Under the India-Singapore tax treaty as amended in 2016, India taxes capital gains on shares of Indian companies acquired on or after 1 April 2017. Singapore is a reciprocating territory for enforcement of judgments in India and a notified New York Convention territory for awards. Position as of [date].
Packaged offerings
India Entry Pack
A single engagement covering everything a foreign company needs to start operating in India through a subsidiary.
Award and Judgment Enforcement in India
An initial assessment of whether and how a foreign award or judgment can be enforced against assets in India, followed by enforcement proceedings if you instruct us.
Outbound Investment Pack for Indian Groups
The Indian-law side of an Indian company’s investment abroad, coordinated with independent local counsel in the target country.
Asset and Title Review for Foreign Lenders and Funds
Title and regulatory diligence on Indian real estate, energy and industrial assets before investment, lending or acquisition, delivered as a red-flag report and full title reports.
Your contact
[Name], [Designation]. [Email]. Available in Singapore business hours.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Singapore holding company still offer tax benefits for Indian investment?
The capital gains exemption for shares acquired after 1 April 2017 has gone, and India’s general anti-avoidance rules apply. Singapore holding structures remain common for commercial, governance and dispute resolution reasons. Tax advice from qualified tax advisers should be taken for each structure.
Can a SIAC emergency arbitrator’s order be enforced in India?
For arbitrations seated outside India, there is no direct mechanism to enforce an emergency arbitrator’s order as such. The usual course is to apply to the Indian court for interim measures on the same facts. [Firm to review this answer before publishing.]