Who We Are
Established in 1837, the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce (SICC) is Singapore’s first and longest-serving independent chamber of commerce.
For nearly 190 years, we have supported businesses and contributed to Singapore’s economic development. With an international outlook rooted in Singapore’s open economy, we bring together a diverse community of local and international businesses, creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange and growth.
We believe in free and fair trade, an open and inclusive economy, multilateral cooperation and responsible business practices. Above all, we believe that businesses thrive when they work together.
Who are Our Members?
Our membership reflects the diversity of Singapore’s business community, spanning all sectors of the economy and organisations of different sizes.
Our members comprise an approximately equal mix of Singaporean-owned and internationally owned companies. They range from multinational corporations and large organisations to medium-sized businesses, SMEs and start-ups.
This diversity is one of SICC’s greatest strengths. It brings together different perspectives, expertise and experiences, creating a dynamic network where businesses can connect, collaborate and learn from one another.
What Is the SICC Advantage?
Singapore. We have been part of Singapore’s business journey since 1837. Our longstanding presence, deep understanding of the local business environment and connections across the public and private sectors position us to help businesses navigate opportunities and challenges, whether they are established here or looking to invest in Singapore.
International. Our outlook and membership reflect the global nature of Singapore’s economy. We believe that local and international businesses, together with global talent, are essential to Singapore’s continued growth and competitiveness. We bring these communities together, fostering an inclusive environment where businesses can build relationships and explore opportunities across borders.
Chamber. We provide a platform for meaningful business-to-business engagement, connecting members with fellow business leaders, industry peers, government representatives and other key stakeholders. Through our network, members gain opportunities to exchange ideas, share expertise and build lasting business relationships. Just as our logo symbolises, we keep the doors to business open.
Commerce. We champion responsible commerce that creates value beyond the bottom line. This means encouraging responsible leadership and people development, meaningful contributions to the communities in which businesses operate, and sustainable business practices that support the transition to a greener economy.
How does SICC Create Value for Its Members?
At SICC, our work is driven by what matters to our members and the wider business community.
We connect members with the people, networks and opportunities that matter to their businesses, across both the private and public sectors. Through our events, dialogues and business platforms, we facilitate meaningful connections, encourage the exchange of knowledge and expertise, and create opportunities for collaboration.
We also provide platforms for members to raise their profiles, strengthen their corporate brands and showcase their capabilities. Working alongside our members and partners, we develop initiatives that generate value not only for individual businesses but also for the wider business community.
A key expression of this collaborative spirit is the annual SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation. The Awards recognise businesses that demonstrate how collaboration can drive innovation, create commercial value and deliver meaningful impact. Beyond celebrating success, the Awards encourage knowledge sharing and inspire other businesses to embrace collaboration through an annual television programme featuring the winning organisations.
Evolution of SICC
As early as the 1830s, the East India Company, which was the government of the day, was seriously considering to remove Singapore’s free port status. A small group of concerned British merchants founded the Singapore Chamber of Commerce to advocate the retention of Singapore’s free port status for the survival of their businesses. They won their case which, in turn, saved their businesses. Their action also paved the way for the longest period of sustained development and population growth in the island’s long history. It is no exaggeration to say if our founders had not won their case, Singapore would not have developed as it has and none of us would be here today.
In 1923, the Chamber became the first authorized operator of Singapore Customs to issue Certificates of Origin and to endorse other shipping documents. The Chamber continues to provide these services today as part of its Trade Documentation Services.
• Successfully advocated for Singapore to join the ATA Carnet system with the Chamber becoming the National Guaranteeing and Issuing Association for Singapore – a role it continues to hold today as part of its Trade Documentation Services.
• Contributed to the founding of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, the European Business Association (EBA), and the Institute of Directors.
• Obtained the government’s agreement for the establishment of the Letter of Consent arrangement to enable expatriate spouses and partners to work and successfully delayed the policy restricting non-citizens' participation in the Central Provident Fund (CPF) system.
Launched an SG50 commemorative publication which is still available for viewing on this website under the Publications section.
Celebrated by fielding a members’ team at Chingay 2019 and by holding an event on the collaborative power of local and international businesses.
The Chamber is an integral part of the fabric of Singapore since the 1830s. Our mission remains the same: to help businesses and promote Singapore. We remain on a journey of continual reinvention to stay relevant to the needs of our members and to Singapore.