Publications

An IRAS–SCTP joint report on strengthening Singapore’s tax talent pipeline

xx Apr 2026

Background

Singapore's tax profession faces talent challenges as the global tax landscape undergoes transformation driven by increasing complexity in international tax laws, digitalisation, and evolving workforce expectations. Recognising the need to build a forward-looking tax profession that attracts and retains deep tax expertise while embracing technology and fostering collaborative networks, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) and the Singapore Chartered Tax Professionals (SCTP) conducted extensive consultations with students and industry stakeholders between March and July 2024.

Key Findings

The consultations revealed gaps between students' perceptions and the reality of the tax profession. Junior college students prioritise meaningful work but view tax as monotonous and government-centric, while tertiary students value career advancement opportunities but perceive tax careers as highly specialised with limited mobility. Industry stakeholders identified challenges including lack of awareness about competitive remuneration, limited tax exposure in academic curricula, and the absence of structured mentorship programmes. These perception gaps and structural barriers significantly hinder talent attraction and retention within Singapore's tax profession.

Key Recommendations

To address the identified challenges, the report recommends an implementation roadmap focused on three key pillars:

1. Engaging future tax professionals through strengthened student outreach programmes, integration of tax education into academic curricula, and diversified talent acquisition beyond traditional accountancy backgrounds
2. Enhancing the profession's appeal by improving internship and mentorship experiences, heightening recognition for accredited tax professionals and establishing accelerated pathways to SCTP accreditation
3. Elevating professional competencies at both individual and firm level through enhanced tax professional development curriculum, expanded learning opportunities, structured mentorship programmes, and increased technology adoption across tax firms.

SCTP, IRAS, and Tax Academy will be collaborating closely to implement these initiatives.

Download the report to discover practical insights for building a stronger talent pipeline in the tax industry.

Have feedback, ideas for collaboration, or questions? You may let us know through completing this "form". (to be discussed)"