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Understanding the 2025 U.S. Tariffs: Implications for Singaporean Exporters

5 May 2025

Let’s face it, work is more than just clocking in. Whether you’re growing your dream business or climbing the career ladder, knowing the ins and outs of employment can make all the difference. At PDLegal, we get that every job and every company has its own quirks and possibilities. Our Employment team is here to be your guide through the sometimes confusing world of work, offering down-to-earth help with all sorts of workplace stuff.

Comprehensive Corporate Support for Employment Matters

At PDLegal, our Employment practice supports companies of all sizes in managing their workplace responsibilities. From drafting corporate employment policies to advising on employee compensation and benefits like Employee Share Option Schemes (ESOS) and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP), we ensure our clients stay compliant and competitive. We also assist businesses during restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, and redundancy situations, making sure the employment aspects are handled with care and precision.

Employment Dispute Resolution for C-Suite Executives

For senior executives, employment issues often involve complex negotiations and delicate disputes. Our Employment team acts for C-suite clients on matters such as wrongful dismissal, termination claims, and negotiating contract terms. We also provide strategic advice on restrictive covenants, including non-compete, non-solicitation, and restraint of trade clauses. Whether you are entering into a new role or resolving an employment dispute, we are by your side to protect your interests.

Employment and Workplace Compliance

Our team goes beyond traditional employment matters by supporting clients with corporate governance, workplace data privacy, and employee misconduct investigations. We understand that employment issues often intersect with broader legal areas like anti-corruption, bribery, and whistle-blowing. With a deep understanding of these connections, PDLegal provides comprehensive advice that helps companies and individuals manage risks and maintain a positive working environment.

Employment Services Across Every Stage of Business Growth

At PDLegal, we believe that effective employment management starts from day one and evolves as businesses grow. Whether you are a startup drafting your first employment contracts or an established multinational navigating cross-border employment compliance, we tailor our advice to fit your specific needs. Our integrated approach ensures that every aspect of your employment framework—from recruitment to retirement—is robust, practical, and future-proof.

Why Choose PDLegal for Employment Solutions?

Employment issues can affect businesses and careers in profound ways. Having a reliable legal partner makes all the difference. At PDLegal, our Employment team combines technical excellence with real-world experience, ensuring you receive practical, actionable advice. We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our clients, helping them navigate every employment challenge with confidence and clarity.

Conclusion: Your Trusted Partner for Employment Matters

Whether you’re a corporate leader shaping your organization’s policies or an executive seeking fair representation, PDLegal’s Employment team is ready to support you. We understand the nuances of employment law and are committed to providing solutions that are both strategic and practical. Let us help you protect your rights, your people, and your future. Contact us today!

Contact PD Legal today for comprehensive legal support in Singapore’s dynamic maritime sector



 

FAQs

Is Singapore subject to U.S. tariffs?
Yes, as of April 2025, Singapore is subject to a 10% baseline tariff on imports into the U.S., introduced under the “Liberation Day” tariffs. This rate is lower compared to higher tariffs imposed on other Southeast Asian countries.

What are the long-term effects of high U.S. tariffs?

Historically, high U.S. tariffs have led to reduced output and productivity, increased unemployment, and worsened income inequality. They can also result in higher consumer prices and retaliatory measures from trade partners, potentially harming global trade dynamics.
Does Singapore have a trade surplus with the U.S.?
No, the U.S. had a goods trade surplus of $2.8 billion with Singapore in 2024, indicating that the U.S. exports more to Singapore than it imports.
What is the impact on a business if tariffs are placed on its exports?
Tariffs increase the cost of exported goods, making them less competitive in the importing country’s market. This can lead to decreased demand, reduced revenues, and potential restructuring of supply chains to mitigate the impact.
What is the U.S. trade agreement with Singapore?
The U.S.–Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA), effective since January 1, 2004, eliminates tariffs on all of Singapore’s exports to the U.S. and provides a framework for trade and investment between the two countries.
Is Singapore a tax treaty country with the United States?
Yes, Singapore has a tax treaty with the United States, which helps prevent double taxation and provides guidelines on taxing income such as dividends, interest, and royalties.
What does Singapore import from the U.S.?
Singapore imports a variety of goods from the U.S., including machinery, chemicals, electronics, and aerospace products. In 2023, imports from the U.S. totaled approximately US$52.06 billion.
Is Singapore tariff-free?
Singapore maintains a generally open trade policy with low tariffs. However, it is subject to tariffs imposed by other countries, such as the 10% U.S. tariff introduced in 2025.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional legal consultation. We recommend seeking legal advice before making any decisions based on the information in this article. PD Legal fully disclaims any responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from reliance on this article.

Chambers & Partners – Asia Pacific 2023

PDLegal LLC is pleased to announce that Managing Partner, Peter Doraisamy, has been recognised and ranked by Chambers & Partners (Asia Pacific 2023 for Shipping: Domestic: Litigation). The following quotes appear with Peter’s ranking: –

“Peter Doraisamy of PDLegal in Singapore is a noted shipping lawyer in the market. He handles a wide range of disputes, including ship grounding, cargo and fraud-related cases” – Chambers & Partners – Asia Pacific 2023

“He is excellent in litigation. He has very good control of the case, collecting the right evidence and putting this into a very successful trial.” – Shipping Litigation Client

Chambers and Partners is the leading independent professional legal research company operating across 200 jurisdictions. Chambers and Partners delivers detailed rankings and insights into the world’s leading lawyers and law firms.

This ranking is a testimony to the expertise and experience of the Firm’s shipping practice and would not be possible without the support of our clients and friends.

View All Awards

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