Singapore is poised to be a launch pad for companies seeking growth in the ever-growing Asian and Pacific regions.

After independence in 1965, Singapore was faced with a lack of physical resources and a small domestic market. In response, the Singapore Government adopted a pro-business, export-oriented economic policy framework, combined with state-directed investments in strategic government-owned corporations.

Singapore's economic strategy proved a success, producing real growth that averaged 8.0% from 1960 to 1999. It did receive a few setbacks in 1997, 1998, 2001 and 2003. But the country soon picked up its pace and the current growth rate is at 7.5%.

The seamless flow of goods and services from Singapore to markets around the world is due to the extensive network of Free Trade Agreements, Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements and Investment Guarantee Agreements, as well as its comprehensive air, sea and IT infrastructures. To protect investments made by Singapore-based companies in other countries against non-commercial risks, Singapore has signed 33 investment guarantee agreements (IGAs)

Agreements have been signed with US, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, Jordan and most recently, with China (under the ASEAN-China framework), South Korea and India- all key economies. As a member of ASEAN, Singapore is also engaging in negotiations with Japan, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.