SSIC Code in Singapore: How to Find and Choose the Right Business Activity

Executive Summary

An SSIC code is a five-digit classification used to identify a business’s economic activity in Singapore. SSIC stands for Singapore Standard Industrial Classification. When registering a business with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), applicants must select a code for their primary business activity and may select another for a secondary activity.

The current SSIC 2025 classification reflects Singapore’s evolving economy and includes updated industry categories. Choosing an appropriate code requires understanding the activities the business will actually perform, comparing official descriptions and checking any separate licensing requirements. BESO supports local and foreign entrepreneurs with Singapore company incorporation and related corporate services, including assistance with business registration information.

What Is an SSIC Code in Singapore?

SSIC stands for Singapore Standard Industrial Classification, Singapore’s national system for classifying economic activities.

The classification is developed by the Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat) and is used for statistical reporting, business registration and administrative purposes.

For entities registered with ACRA, five-digit SSIC codes identify the nature of the business’s registered activities.

Each code corresponds to a particular economic activity or category of activities.

For example, a business involved in software development may fall under a different classification from a business providing management consultancy, operating a restaurant or selling goods online.

The appropriate classification depends on the actual economic activity, not simply the business’s trading name or preferred industry label.

For official guidance, see ACRA’s guide to finding the right SSIC code.

Why Is an SSIC Code Important for Business Registration?

When applying to reserve a business name through ACRA’s Bizfile system, applicants must specify the proposed business activity using the relevant SSIC classification.

The selected code becomes part of the entity’s registered business information.

Choosing an appropriate code matters for several reasons.

1. Accurate Business Registration

An SSIC code helps identify the principal activity carried out by a registered entity.

The classification should reasonably reflect what the business actually does.

2. Consistent Government Classification

SSIC provides a standardised system that government agencies and statistical organisations can use to classify economic activities.

This supports consistent data collection and analysis across different industries.

3. Relevant Regulatory Considerations

Certain activities may require additional approvals, licences or permits from the relevant authorities.

Although an SSIC code does not itself grant permission to undertake a regulated activity, identifying the business activity correctly can help applicants recognise the need to check additional requirements.

4. Business Information and Due Diligence

Registered business activities may be reviewed by banks, business partners, customers and other parties during their own assessment processes.

An appropriate classification can help ensure the company’s registered description is consistent with its actual operations.

However, selecting a particular SSIC code does not guarantee bank account approval, financing or regulatory clearance.

What Is SSIC 2025?

SSIC 2025 is the current edition of the Singapore Standard Industrial Classification, published by the Singapore Department of Statistics in April 2025.

It updates the previous SSIC 2020 edition to reflect developments in the Singapore economy and changes in international statistical classification standards.

The update includes revisions to existing classifications, new categories for emerging activities and the removal or reorganisation of certain older classifications.

SSIC 2025 is aligned with the framework of the United Nations’ International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities, Revision 5 (ISIC Rev. 5).

Businesses should use the current classification when identifying the appropriate code for a new registration.

Existing companies should also review whether their registered activities remain accurate, particularly if their operations have changed or their previous classification has been revised.

Official reference: Singapore Standard Industrial Classification 2025 — SingStat.

How Are SSIC Codes Structured?

The SSIC classification uses a hierarchical system to group related economic activities.

The hierarchy moves from broad industries to more detailed activities.

Classification Level	Purpose
Section	Broad sector of economic activity
Division	Major industry grouping
Group	Related types of economic activity
Class	More specific activity category
Sub-class	Detailed five-digit SSIC activity classification

For ACRA registration, businesses generally select the applicable five-digit SSIC sub-class.

The five-digit code is important because it provides a more precise classification than a broad description such as “trading”, “consulting” or “technology”.

Primary vs Secondary SSIC Code: What Is the Difference?

ACRA allows registered entities to specify a primary business activity and, where applicable, a secondary business activity.

Primary Business Activity

The primary SSIC code should represent the principal economic activity carried out by the business.

In practice, businesses should consider which activity is central to their operations and, where relevant, which activity contributes most significantly to their economic output.

The primary activity should reflect the substance of the business rather than a vague or overly broad description.

Secondary Business Activity

A secondary SSIC code may be selected where the business also carries out another distinct economic activity.

For example, a business might primarily develop software while also providing a separate IT consultancy service.

Whether those activities require different SSIC codes depends on the official classification definitions.

A secondary code should not be selected merely to list every service the business might possibly offer in the future.

Can a Singapore Company Have More Than Two SSIC Codes?

For ACRA registration, an entity can generally register up to two SSIC codes: one primary and one secondary.

However, this does not mean the company is automatically prohibited from carrying out every other lawful activity.

SSIC codes classify the business’s main economic activities. Actual business operations remain subject to applicable laws, the company’s constitution where relevant, and licensing or regulatory requirements.

How to Find the Right SSIC Code in Singapore

Choosing an appropriate SSIC code is easier when the business owner first identifies the specific activities the company intends to perform.

Step 1: Describe Your Actual Business Activities

Write a clear description of what the business will do.

For example, instead of describing the company simply as a “technology business”, determine whether it will primarily:

Develop software for customers.
Operate an online platform.
Provide IT consultancy.
Sell computer equipment.
Provide data processing services.

These activities may fall under different SSIC classifications.

Step 2: Search the Official SSIC Classification

Use the official SSIC resources published by SingStat.

Search using keywords that describe the business’s actual operations.

Relevant search terms might include:

Software development
Management consultancy
Retail sale
Wholesale trade
Food services
Business support services
Education services

Refer to SingStat’s SSIC 2025 classification and reference materials.

Step 3: Read the Detailed Activity Definition

Do not select a code based only on its short title.

Review the official detailed definition, which may describe the activities included in the classification and activities that are excluded.

Some business activities have similar names but different economic characteristics.

Reading the definitions can help distinguish between related categories.

Step 4: Compare Similar Codes

If several codes appear relevant, compare their scope carefully.

Consider:

What the business actually sells or provides.
Whether it supplies goods or services.
Whether it manufactures, distributes or retails products.
Whether it operates a platform or provides professional services.
Whether the activity is conducted for customers or as an internal support function.

The most appropriate code should describe the principal economic activity, not merely contain familiar keywords.

Step 5: Select Your Primary and Secondary Activities

Identify the code that best represents the principal business activity.

If the company has another distinct and relevant economic activity, consider whether a secondary SSIC code is appropriate.

Do not automatically use the secondary field when the business has only one meaningful activity.

Step 6: Check for Licensing or Regulatory Requirements

Before proceeding, determine whether the proposed business activity requires a licence, permit or other approval.

Examples of regulated areas can include:

Food establishments.
Employment agencies.
Financial services.
Healthcare services.
Education and training activities.
Transport-related activities.

Licensing requirements depend on the precise nature of the activities and the relevant legislation.

Business owners can consult GoBusiness Singapore and the responsible regulatory authority.

Step 7: Confirm the Code During Bizfile Registration

When reserving a business name through ACRA’s Bizfile system, enter a keyword under the business activity section.

Review the available classifications and select the most appropriate primary SSIC code.

Where applicable, select a secondary code.

See ACRA’s instructions for reserving a business name through Bizfile.

Examples of Business Activities and SSIC Classification

The following examples illustrate how different activities may require different classifications.

Business Scenario	What to Look For	Important Consideration
Software development company	Software development or related technology services	Distinguish software development from IT consultancy or platform operations
Management consultancy firm	Management consultancy activities	Determine whether the work is business advice or another specialised professional service
Online retailer	Retail classification appropriate to the goods and business model	Review SSIC 2025 definitions rather than assuming all online sales share one code
Wholesale trading business	Wholesale activity relevant to the products traded	Distinguish wholesale distribution from retail sales
Restaurant or café	Relevant food service activity	Check separate food establishment licensing requirements
Employment agency	Employment placement or recruitment activity	Check Ministry of Manpower licensing requirements
Property-related business	Relevant real estate activity	Distinguish property ownership, agency services and property management

These examples describe activity categories rather than assigning specific five-digit codes. Applicants should confirm the exact SSIC 2025 code using the official definitions before registration.

Does an SSIC Code Determine What a Company Is Allowed to Do?

No. An SSIC code is primarily a classification of economic activity, not a standalone authorisation or licence.

SingStat explains that SSIC codes are intended to reflect the main activities undertaken by firms and do not, by themselves, restrict all activities a firm may carry out.

However, this does not remove the need to comply with applicable legislation, sector-specific rules, licensing requirements or other restrictions.

For example, selecting an SSIC code associated with a regulated business activity does not automatically authorise the company to provide that service.

Companies should separately confirm whether approvals from the relevant authorities are required.

SSIC Code vs Business Licence: What Is the Difference?

Comparison	SSIC Code	Business Licence
Purpose	Classifies the business’s economic activity	Authorises a regulated activity where required
Main authority	SSIC developed by SingStat; used in ACRA registration	Relevant licensing authority
Required for ACRA registration	Yes, for applicable registered business activities	Depends on the business activity
Grants permission to operate	No, not by itself	May grant permission subject to licence conditions
Examples	Classification of retail, consultancy or food services	Relevant food, employment agency or financial services licences

A company may therefore need both an appropriate SSIC classification and a separate licence before commencing a particular activity.

Can You Change Your Company’s SSIC Code After Incorporation?

Yes. A Singapore company may update its registered business activities when its actual operations change.

For example, a company originally registered for wholesale trading may later expand into a distinct consulting or technology-related activity.

Where the principal or secondary business activity has changed, the company should review whether its registered SSIC information needs to be updated.

Changes to registered business information should be submitted through ACRA’s applicable Bizfile procedures within the required timeframe.

The business should also consider whether its new activities require additional licences, approvals or changes to internal documentation.

For further information, visit ACRA’s official website.

When Should an Existing Company Review Its SSIC Code?

It may be appropriate to review the company’s registered SSIC codes when:

The company begins providing a substantially different service.
The business shifts from wholesale to retail or another operating model.
A new activity becomes the company’s principal source of economic activity.
The company stops carrying out its previously registered primary activity.
The business undergoes a significant restructuring.
The current SSIC classification has been revised or replaced.

However, not every small change in products or services necessarily requires a different SSIC code.

The key question is whether the company’s registered classification still accurately reflects its principal activities.

Common Mistakes When Choosing an SSIC Code

1. Choosing a Code Based Only on the Company Name

A company’s name may not fully describe what it does.

For example, a company using the word “technology” in its name could primarily develop software, provide consultancy or sell equipment.

The SSIC code should reflect its actual activity.

2. Selecting the First Search Result

A keyword search may return several related classifications.

Applicants should compare the detailed definitions before selecting a code.

3. Using an Outdated Classification

Older SSIC editions may contain codes or descriptions that have since changed.

Businesses should use the current SSIC 2025 reference materials and available official tools.

4. Choosing an Overly Broad or Inaccurate Description

A vague classification may not accurately represent the company’s main activity.

Where a more appropriate classification exists, it should be considered.

5. Confusing Primary and Secondary Activities

The primary code should describe the principal activity.

A secondary code should be used for another distinct activity where relevant.

6. Assuming the Code Replaces a Business Licence

SSIC classification and regulatory licensing are separate matters.

Businesses should not commence regulated activities solely because an SSIC code has been selected.

7. Failing to Update Registered Activities

When the company’s principal operations change, its registered business information may no longer accurately reflect its activities.

Regular reviews can help identify whether an update is required.

How Does the SSIC Code Relate to Company Incorporation?

SSIC selection is part of the business registration and incorporation process in Singapore.

Before submitting a company name application, entrepreneurs should understand the company’s proposed activities and identify the appropriate classification.

Other incorporation considerations include:

Choosing a suitable business structure.
Confirming the proposed company name.
Appointing the required company officers.
Determining the ownership and shareholding structure.
Providing the registered office address.
Preparing the required incorporation information.
Checking whether licences or approvals are necessary.

For professional assistance, explore BESO’s Singapore incorporation services.

SSIC Codes for Foreign Entrepreneurs Registering in Singapore

Foreign entrepreneurs establishing a Singapore company must also identify the company’s proposed business activities.

The SSIC classification process generally follows the same principle: select the code that best describes the company’s intended primary activity and, where applicable, a secondary activity.

Foreign ownership does not create a separate SSIC classification system.

However, foreign entrepreneurs must also consider applicable incorporation, resident director, immigration and sector-specific regulatory requirements.

Business registration does not automatically grant an individual the right to work in Singapore.

BESO provides dedicated company incorporation services for non-residents.

Singapore residents can also review BESO’s incorporation services for residents.

How BESO Supports SSIC Selection and Business Registration

BESO Corporate Services Pte. Ltd. supports entrepreneurs and businesses with company incorporation and related corporate administration in Singapore.

When preparing for registration, identifying the company’s intended business activities is an important step.

Depending on the client’s circumstances, BESO can assist with:

Understanding the proposed business activities.
Reviewing relevant registration information.
Supporting the identification of appropriate SSIC classifications.
Preparing company incorporation documentation.
Assisting with company registration through the applicable procedures.
Providing ongoing corporate secretarial and administrative support.

Business owners should separately confirm any industry-specific licences or approvals required for their activities.

Explore our Singapore company incorporation services or review the full range of BESO corporate services.

Enquire About Company Incorporation in Singapore

Are you planning to register a company in Singapore but unsure how to describe your proposed business activities?

BESO can support your incorporation process and help you prepare the relevant business registration information.

Enquire About BESO’s Singapore Incorporation Services.

Choose your business activity with clarity. Start your Singapore business with confidence.

BESO — Success Made Simple.

Frequently Asked Questions About SSIC Codes in Singapore

1. What does SSIC stand for in Singapore?

SSIC stands for Singapore Standard Industrial Classification. It is the national system used to classify economic activities. ACRA-registered entities use five-digit SSIC codes to identify their primary business activity and, where applicable, a secondary activity.

2. How do I find the correct SSIC code for my business?

Start by describing the activities your business will actually perform. Search the official SSIC 2025 classification, compare relevant code descriptions and read the detailed definitions. Select the code that best represents the principal activity.

3. How many SSIC codes can a Singapore company register?

For ACRA registration, a company can generally specify up to two SSIC codes: one for its primary business activity and one for a secondary activity where applicable.

4. Can I change my SSIC code after registering my company?

Yes. A company can update its registered business activities through ACRA’s applicable Bizfile procedures. An update may be necessary when the company’s principal or secondary economic activities change.

5. Does choosing an SSIC code mean I can legally operate that business?

No. An SSIC code classifies an economic activity but does not itself grant a licence or regulatory approval. Businesses must separately satisfy any applicable licensing, permit or legal requirements before undertaking regulated activities.

Conclusion: Choose the Right SSIC Code Before Registering Your Business

Selecting an appropriate SSIC code is an important part of business registration in Singapore.

The code should accurately describe the company’s principal economic activity, with a secondary classification included where appropriate.

Business owners should review the current SSIC 2025 definitions, compare similar classifications and distinguish business activity registration from separate licensing requirements.

Companies should also review their registered activities when their operations change significantly.

With appropriate preparation, entrepreneurs can complete their registration information more confidently and establish a clearer foundation for their business.

Choose your business activity with clarity. Start your Singapore business with confidence.

BESO — Success Made Simple.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal, regulatory or professional advice. SSIC classifications, ACRA procedures and licensing requirements may change. Businesses should verify the latest official guidance and seek professional advice where necessary.