GST on gold and silver in Singapore
Singapore exempts investment precious metals from GST. What generally qualifies, what does not, and where to confirm it.
The short version
Singapore exempts qualifying investment precious metals, known as IPM, from GST. Jewellery and items that fall outside the rules are taxed as usual.
What generally qualifies
The rules look at the metal, its fineness and its form. High-purity gold, silver and platinum bars, ingots and wafers can qualify, and so can certain bullion coins. The exact thresholds and lists are set by IRAS and can change, so check the current IRAS guidance rather than relying on a summary.
What to do before you buy
Ask the dealer whether the item is sold as IPM, and check that the invoice shows it. Collectible and numismatic items in particular may be treated differently from plain bullion. This guide is general information, not tax advice.