Step-by-Step Process for Exporting to Singapore

Step 1: Obtain Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)

IEC is mandatory for all businesses exporting goods from India.

You need:

PAN
Business registration proof
Bank certificate/cancelled cheque
Address proof

Apply through the DGFT portal.

Step 2: Understand Singapore’s Import Regulations

Singapore is a free-trade-oriented nation, meaning most goods can be imported easily. However, some categories require specific permits and licensing from relevant authorities.

Singapore authorities include:

Singapore Customs
Singapore Food Agency (SFA)
Health Sciences Authority (HSA)
IMDA – Info-communications Media Development Authority
NEA – National Environment Agency

Regulated products include:

Food & beverages
Cosmetics
Pharmaceuticals & medical devices
Electronics & RF devices
Chemicals

Study Singapore’s TradeNet system guidelines to understand permit requirements.

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code & Duty Structure

Singapore has zero import duties on most products, except:

Alcohol
Tobacco
Petroleum products
Motor vehicles

Make sure to classify your product correctly under the HS code to avoid customs delays.

Step 4: Prepare Export Documentation

Documentation must be complete and accurate.

Required documents:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Shipping Bill (via ICEGATE)
Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin (if needed)
Insurance Certificate

Additional documents for regulated items:

SFA Certificate (for food items)
Health Certificates
Safety test reports
Radio equipment certification (for electronics)

Step 5: Ensure Proper Packaging & Labeling

Singapore follows global packaging standards.

General labels must include:

Product name
Manufacturer details
Batch/lot number
Country of origin (Made in India)
Expiry date (if applicable)

For food & cosmetic items:

Ingredient list
Nutritional information
Allergen declaration

Singapore typically accepts labels in English.

Step 6: Choose a Shipping Method

Sea Freight:

Best for large quantities and cost efficiency. Major ports:

Port of Singapore, one of the busiest ports globally.

Air Freight:

Ideal for fast delivery or small consignments.
Handled through Changi Airport.

Select Incoterms like FOB, CIF, or DDP based on buyer agreements.

Step 7: File Shipping Bill & Complete Indian Customs Clearance

Your CHA/freight agent will:

File shipping bill via ICEGATE
Submit documents for customs examination
Obtain Let Export Order (LEO)
Arrange loading

Once cleared, the goods move to the vessel/airline.

Step 8: Singapore Customs Clearance

On arrival, the importer (or your buyer) must:

File an import permit via TradeNet
Present commercial documents
Pay GST (usually 8%) if applicable
Provide product certificates (for regulated goods)

Singapore customs is known for efficiency; clearance usually happens within hours.

Step 9: Delivery to Buyer, Distributor, or Marketplace

After clearance, goods are delivered to:

Buyer’s warehouse
Distribution centers
Retail shops
E-commerce warehouses (Shopee, Lazada, Amazon SG)

Singapore also acts as a gateway to ASEAN countries.

Step 10: Claim Export Benefits in India

After successful export, apply for:

RoDTEP rebates
Duty Drawback
GST Refund under LUT/Bond

Retain all export documents for compliance and audit purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Singapore charge import duties?

Most items are duty-free. Only alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and certain categories attract customs duties.

2. Do I need special approval to export food items?

Yes. Singapore Food Agency (SFA) requires health certificates and food-safety compliance.

3. What language should labels be in?

English labels are accepted for most consumer goods.

4. Can I export to Amazon Singapore?

Yes. Many Indian sellers ship inventory to Amazon FBA Singapore.

5. How fast is customs clearance in Singapore?

Very fast—usually within hours if documents are correct.

Final Tips for Exporters to Singapore

Use reliable freight forwarders familiar with Singapore routes.
Maintain strict quality standards—Singapore customers expect high quality.
Stay updated with Singapore’s regulatory notices on TradeNet.
Negotiate clear payment terms with buyers.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Export procedures, customs requirements, and regulatory norms may change based on updates by DGFT, Singapore Customs, SFA, HSA, and associated authorities. Readers should consult certified professionals before making business decisions. Saving Mantra is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.

Step-by-Step Process for Export to Singapore