This monthly roundup reviews the key regulatory updates and official announcements from February 2026 that are most relevant to entrepreneurs, company founders, and directors. Singapore remains one of the world’s leading business hubs for company registration and international expansion, supported by a stable legal system, transparent regulation, and a pro enterprise environment. In February 2026 alone, approximately 5,300 new companies were registered, reflecting continued confidence in Singapore as a base for starting and operating a business in Asia and globally.
Regulatory frameworks are regularly refined to maintain high governance standards while supporting enterprise growth. February also saw the delivery of Budget 2026, with enhanced programmes and measures for business support, innovation, and financing.
Corporate Law Updates
Corporate & Accounting Laws (Amendment) Bill: Preparing for April 2026 Changes
The Corporate & Accounting Laws (Amendment) Act is expected to commence in April 2026. The amendments introduce changes across five key areas: preventing the misuse of companies for unlawful purposes, strengthening shareholder safeguards, enhancing regulatory oversight, streamlining selected administrative requirements, and increasing accountability within the auditing profession.
In view of the upcoming commencement, companies and corporate service providers should review their internal governance frameworks, nominee arrangements, and record keeping practices. Founders should assess whether existing compliance structures are aligned with the revised statutory requirements and make necessary adjustments before the changes take effect.
Source: https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Bills-Supp/13-2025/Published/20251014?DocDate=20251014
Nominee Director Convicted for Failing to Hold AGMs and File Annual Returns
On 23 February 2026, a nominee director was convicted in the State Courts for failing to hold annual general meetings and file annual returns as required under the Companies Act. The court imposed fines and a period of disqualification.
This case serves as a strong reminder to founders and corporate service providers that appointing a nominee director does not dilute statutory compliance obligations. Directors remain personally responsible for ensuring that AGMs are held and filings are completed on time. Non compliance can result in prosecution, financial penalties, and disqualification from acting as a director.
Source: https://www.acra.gov.sg/prosecution-highlights/prosecution-of-cases-in-the-state-courts
Accounting & Tax Law Updates
Budget 2026: Tax Changes and Enterprise Disbursements
IRAS published its Budget 2026 page noting that the FY2026 Budget Statement was delivered on 12 February 2026 and pointing businesses to the official Budget package and MOF annexes for details.
For SME founders, this is the main reference hub to track which corporate tax measures and business support items are confirmed, and where to find the official annexes for implementation details. If you are reviewing how Budget changes affect your filings and planning, it is useful to cross check against your existing understanding of Singapore’s tax system and corporate taxation in Singapore as you update projections and compliance calendars.
See also our recent article: Singapore Budget 2026 Overview: Tax Rebates, Business Support, AI Grants, and Growth Initiatives
IRAS Updates “Guide to Completing GST Registration Form” with InvoiceNow Section
IRAS updated its GST registration guidance, and the revised guide now clearly reflects an InvoiceNow component within the “Register for GST” digital workflow on myTax Portal. This signals increasing integration between tax compliance and digital invoicing systems.
Businesses preparing for GST registration should ensure readiness for InvoiceNow related steps, particularly where accounting software or in house invoicing systems are used. Early system checks may prevent delays during registration.
CRS: IRAS Publishes Updated AEOI TIN Guide
On 2 February 2026, IRAS updated its Automatic Exchange of Information Tax Identification Number Guide under the Common Reporting Standard section. The guide clarifies expectations on collecting and verifying TIN information for account holders and controlling persons.
Reporting Singapore Financial Institutions should review onboarding and reporting procedures to ensure accuracy. Missing or incorrect TIN information may lead to follow up queries from regulators and potential compliance exposure.
ACRA Updates Guidance on Applying for Extension of Time to File Annual Returns
ACRA updated its online guidance on applying for a 60 day Extension of Time to file annual returns. The updated page clarifies eligibility conditions, application timing, and supporting documentation requirements.
For SMEs facing genuine operational constraints, an approved extension can provide short term relief. However, companies must apply before the filing deadline and should not treat extensions as routine. Directors remain responsible for timely compliance.
ASC Issues Exposure Draft on Amendments to IAS 28 (Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures)
On 20 February 2026, the Accounting Standards Council invited public comments on proposed amendments to IAS 28 (International Accounting Standard 28 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures, which sets out how companies account for investments where they have significant influence but not full control, typically using the equity method) relating to the fair value option. The consultation period runs until 13 March 2026.
Although this is a consultation stage, any future adoption may affect how companies account for investments in associates and joint ventures. SMEs with complex investment structures should monitor developments, particularly where financial reporting affects shareholder reporting or external financing.
Source: https://www.acra.gov.sg/accountancy/accounting-standards
Government Support Schemes Updates
Singapore Budget 2026: Enterprise Support Measures Announced
Singapore’s Budget 2026 outlined enterprise support measures aimed at helping businesses manage costs and enhance competitiveness. The package includes tax related measures and continued backing for productivity, innovation, and internationalisation initiatives.
SMEs should assess how the announced measures interact with their cost structure and growth plans. Careful review may identify opportunities for structured support aligned with operational priorities.
Source: https://www.mof.gov.sg/singaporebudget
AI Support Under the Enterprise Innovation Scheme
The Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS) continues to provide tax support for research, development, and innovation activities. Under Budget 2026 enhancements, qualifying artificial intelligence related expenditure falls within the structured support framework of the scheme.
The EIS allows enhanced tax deductions on qualifying innovation expenditure and offers cash conversion options for eligible businesses, subject to prescribed caps. AI related spending may include development of proprietary AI tools, customised enterprise AI solutions, and data analytics infrastructure directly linked to business innovation. The expanded scope reinforces support for companies investing in digital transformation through tax efficient mechanisms.
Source: https://www.iras.gov.sg/schemes/disbursement-schemes/enterprise-innovation-scheme-(eis)
Startup SG Equity: Continued Government Co-Investment Support
Budget 2026 provides additional funding support under Startup SG Equity, reinforcing the Government’s co-investment model with private investors. Startup SG Equity involves the Government co-investing alongside qualified venture capital funds and private investors into innovative Singapore based startups.
The continued enhancements signal sustained support for early stage and deep tech ventures, including companies progressing beyond seed stage and scale ready businesses seeking growth capital. Companies intending to seek co-investment should ensure that their corporate structure, shareholding arrangements, and governance framework align with venture investment standards and Startup SG Equity eligibility criteria.
Source: https://enterprise.nus.edu.sg/funding/startup-sg-equity/
Business Law Updates
Ministry of Law Launches Simplified Insolvency Programme (SIP 2.0)
The Ministry of Law launched the revamped Simplified Insolvency Programme (SIP 2.0), which takes practical effect in February 2026. The programme is designed specifically for micro and small companies in financial distress, offering a more streamlined and cost-efficient pathway for restructuring or winding up. Compared to standard insolvency procedures under the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act, SIP 2.0 reduces procedural complexity and administrative burden.
For SME founders and directors, the relaunch is particularly relevant in the current economic environment. Companies facing cash flow pressure or creditor claims now have access to a structured framework that enables faster resolution while maintaining appropriate safeguards. Directors should assess eligibility criteria early and seek professional advice promptly, as timely action remains critical when insolvency risks arise.
Source: https://www.mlaw.gov.sg/launch-of-revamped-sip/
Tech & Digital Law Updates
PDPC to Step Up Enforcement Action Against Misuse of NRIC Numbers and Issue New Advisory on Data Protection
On 2 February 2026, PDPC announced that it will step up enforcement from 1 January 2027 against organisations using NRIC numbers for authentication. The regulator emphasised that such practices increase the risk of unauthorised access and may breach PDPA obligations if reasonable security arrangements are not implemented.
PDPC also issued an advisory highlighting common data protection lapses and recommending more secure alternatives. Businesses handling personal data should review authentication systems early to ensure compliance ahead of the enforcement timeline.