GST hike aimed at helping Singapore remain competitive while staying inclusive: Tharman

Jakarta

THE planned increase in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in Singapore is aimed at helping the country remain competitive, while ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth, said Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam.

"The Budget announcement of a future increase in GST from 7 to 9 per cent is a part of the balance that we are striking," said Mr Tharman at a forum in Jakarta on Tuesday.