The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) launched the Nationwide E-Invoicing Network in 2019 to modernize invoicing for businesses in Singapore. This ground-breaking initiative focuses on enhancing efficiency, reducing operational costs, enabling faster digital payments, and fostering sustainability.

Built on the International Peppol E-Delivery Network, this system empowers businesses to seamlessly transact with international partners, setting Singapore apart as a leader in global e-invoicing.

• Pioneering Peppol Authority (May 2018): IMDA became the first Peppol Authority outside Europe, establishing Singapore as a global leader in e-invoicing.
• Launch of the E-Invoicing Network (January 2019): The network was introduced with 11 Access Point providers ready to serve the market.
• Peppol Ready Accreditation (2019): By January 2020, over 50 Peppol-Solution providers joined the network, driving widespread adoption.
• Preferred Submission Channel (January 2020): A new e-invoice submission channel was added, becoming the go-to method for suppliers.
• E-Invoicing Registration Grant (March 2020): Incentives encouraged businesses to join the network, with registration open until 31 December 2020.

The Peppol framework facilitates seamless electronic exchange of business documents like invoices, using a standardized XML format called BIS Billing 3.0 UBL. Developed by OpenPeppol, this framework enables interoperability across different platforms, ensuring efficiency and consistency in transactions.

The Peppol network operates through a 4-corner model, allowing businesses to connect once and trade with any partner on the network:

• Corner 1 (Seller): Sends an invoice from their preferred accounting/ERP system.
• Corner 2 (Seller’s Access Point): Converts the invoice into the standardized format and transmits it through the Peppol network.
• Corner 3 (Buyer’s Access Point): Receives the e-invoice and maps it into the buyer’s preferred format.
• Corner 4 (Buyer): Integrates the e-invoice directly into their system.

This eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors, and accelerates payment processes.

As the Peppol Authority in Singapore, IMDA oversees:

• Certification: Approving Peppol Access Point providers and accrediting Peppol-Ready solutions.
• Standards: Specifying SG Peppol BIS technical standards tailored to Singapore.
• Compliance: Governing adherence to Peppol guidelines locally.
• Promotion: Advocating for Peppol adoption to enhance business efficiency.

Singapore also adopts a centralized Service Metadata Publisher (SMP) model managed by SGNIC, simplifying access to the network.

• Efficiency: Direct system-to-system transmission reduces manual effort.
• Accuracy: Eliminates errors common in paper or email invoicing.
• Speed: Accelerates invoice processing and payment cycles.
• Flexibility: Enables businesses to use their preferred ERP/accounting system while seamlessly connecting to partners.

By transitioning to digital invoicing, businesses contribute to a greener environment by reducing paper waste and energy consumption associated with traditional processes.

E-Invoicing Initiative, exemplifies Singapore’s commitment to digital transformation. Leveraging the Peppol framework, it connects businesses locally and globally, fostering a streamlined, sustainable, and efficient ecosystem.

Adopting our approach is more than a regulatory step; it’s a strategic move towards future-proofing operations, reducing costs, and enhancing global trade. Businesses are encouraged to embrace this innovative network to stay competitive in a rapidly digitizing world.