MOST people think about tax as little as possible - but the academic study of tax in Singapore is being taken to a new level.

SIM University, together with the newly set-up Tax Academy of Singapore, is launching the first Masters in Taxation course in South-east Asia.

Tax usually features only as part of a standard degree course for accountancy and finance graduates. Those working in tax departments of the Big Four accounting firms get further training and exposure.

But so far, there has been no advanced study of tax in Singapore - unlike in other countries such as Australia and Britain.

Tax matters are getting more complex as more companies expand overseas. Tax experts have to deal with the various tax treaties Singapore has signed so far with various countries - 54 in all.

'It is important to have a sound understanding of the different taxation systems in countries where our businesses invest,' said Mr S.Iswaran, Minister of State for Trade and Industry, at the launch of the programme yesterday.

This programme is part of Singapore's plan to be a regional tax knowledge hub, he said.

The course targets those who work in the tax departments of the Big Four accounting firms and those who work in corporate in-house tax departments.

The first intake is in September, with an expected 20 participants who will start an initial advanced tax course before moving on to the Masters.

The entire course, including the Masters, lasts about two years. It will cost students $20,000 to $22,000. Students must have a recognised accountancy qualification.

One tax partner welcomed the new course, saying that 'there is a shortage of trained tax professionals in the industry'.

'With many companies setting up headquarters here, there is a demand for tax professionals who can advise on tax issues in the Asia-Pacific.'

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