Who we are
We are the first and longest serving, independent Singapore Chamber. We have been serving businesses and Singapore since 1837. Just like our country, we have always been internationally focused in the interests of a vibrant economy necessary for our collective survival. Hence the word “international” in our name. It follows we are also an inclusive eco-system of member companies which represent the diversity of the Singapore business community. We stand for free and fair trade, integrated multiculturalism, multilateralism, an open economy and responsible business.
Who are SICC's Members?
Our diverse membership represents all sectors of the economy. 50% of member companies are Singaporean owned and 50% are internationally owned. Half of the Chamber’s members are large organizations including many multinationals and the other half comprises medium, small and start-up companies.
What’s the SICC advantage?
We know Singapore better than most. The Chamber and its members have been helping businesses and Singapore since 1837. That is why we are best placed to help you navigate our country whether you are a business already established here or planning to invest. SICC has built a reputation as a consistently, credible advocate for business interests and for Singapore to policymakers and investors alike.
We are International both in our focus and membership. We know the Singapore economy needs local and global businesses and talent to survive and thrive. That was true in 1837 and remains true today. That is why we integrate and include. We never seek to divide and exclude.
Consequently, the Chamber provides one of the very best platforms anywhere for meaningful B2B engagement. Just like in our logo, we keep the doors to business open for you.
Commerce is what we are about but it must be responsible commerce. Responsible in how company teams are managed, led and developed. Responsible in how companies give back to the community in which they live and work. Responsible in how companies respond to the transition to the green economy to achieve personal, commercial and societal sustainability.
How does SICC create value for its members?
SICC serves its members in multiple ways always driven by what members need. We connect members to the people they need and want to meet in the private and public sectors. We provide members with a platform to network, share expertise and knowledge. The same platform allows members to build and enhance their personal and commercial brands. We collaborate with our members and partners to create value not just for them but for the wider business community too. We provide topical, business-relevant content via professionally delivered events.
Finally, because we are focused on the power of collaboration to spur innovation, the annual SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation are the most relevant business awards today. Not only do they celebrate and recognize successful commercial collaborations which drive business innovation, they facilitate community learning through our annual TV programme with each year’s winners and encourage emulation.
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.