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How to Export to Singapore from India – Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses

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Financial Analyst

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Learn how to export to Singapore from India with this step-by-step guide. Covers IEC registration, HS codes, Singapore Customs rules, permits, shipping, documentation, and export payments.

How to Export to Singapore from India: Step-by-Step Guide

Singapore is one of Asia’s most business-friendly and efficiently regulated trading hubs. Due to its strategic location, world-class ports, and transparent customs systems, Singapore is a preferred export destination for Indian businesses across manufacturing, food, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and services sectors.

This guide explains how to export to Singapore from India step by step, helping exporters comply with regulations, reduce delays, and build sustainable trade operations.

Step 1: Set Up Your Business for Export

Before exporting to Singapore, ensure your Indian business is fully compliant.

You must have:

  • A registered business entity (Proprietorship, LLP, Partnership, or Company)
  • PAN
  • Current bank account
  • Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT
  • GST registration (exports are zero-rated under GST)

IEC is mandatory for exporting goods from India.

Step 2: Select the Right Product for the Singapore Market

Singapore imports a wide variety of Indian products, including:

  • Processed foods, spices, and beverages
  • Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
  • Electronics and electrical goods
  • Apparel, textiles, and lifestyle products
  • Chemicals and engineering goods
  • IT, consulting, and digital services

Before finalizing the product:

  • Confirm that it is freely exportable under Indian laws
  • Check whether Singapore imposes any special import controls or licenses
  • Study consumer standards and labeling expectations

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code

The HS Code (Harmonized System Code) determines:

  • Import duties in Singapore
  • Permit requirements
  • Statistical classification by customs

Ensure that the HS code used in India aligns with Singapore Customs classification to avoid clearance issues.

Step 4: Understand Singapore Import Regulations

Imports into Singapore are governed by:

  • Singapore Customs
  • Other Competent Authorities (CA) depending on product type

Examples of regulatory authorities:

  • SFA (Singapore Food Agency) – food and agricultural products
  • HSA (Health Sciences Authority) – pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical devices
  • IMDA – telecom and wireless equipment
  • NEA – chemicals and controlled substances

Some products require:

  • Import permits
  • Pre-market approval
  • Compliance with Singapore standards

Step 5: Find and Verify a Singapore Buyer

Buyers can be identified through:

  • Trade fairs and exhibitions
  • B2B marketplaces
  • Distributors and wholesalers
  • Direct business inquiries

Before confirming the order:

  • Verify buyer’s company registration
  • Finalize a purchase order or sales contract
  • Clearly define product specifications, quantity, delivery timeline, and payment terms

Step 6: Finalize Incoterms and Pricing

Commonly used Incoterms for Singapore trade include:

  • FOB (Free on Board)
  • CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)
  • DAP (Delivered at Place)

FOB and CIF are most suitable for new exporters. Pricing should factor in:

  • Production costs
  • Inland transport and export documentation
  • Freight and insurance (if applicable)
  • Currency fluctuation risks

Step 7: Arrange Shipping and Logistics

Shipping options from India to Singapore:

  • Sea freight – economical and widely used
  • Air freight – faster for urgent or high-value shipments
  • Courier services – samples and small consignments

Export documentation includes:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Shipping Bill
  • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
  • Certificate of Origin (for FTA benefits, if applicable)
  • Insurance certificate (if applicable)

Step 8: Indian Customs Clearance

Export clearance in India involves:

  • Filing a shipping bill on ICEGATE
  • Customs assessment of HS code and value
  • Compliance checks and approvals
  • Issuance of Let Export Order (LEO)

After clearance, goods are shipped to Singapore.

Step 9: Customs Clearance in Singapore

The Singapore importer or customs agent handles:

  • Import permit application via TradeNet
  • Declaration to Singapore Customs
  • Payment of duties and GST (if applicable)
  • Regulatory inspections, if required

Singapore generally has low or zero import duties, except for certain excisable goods.

Step 10: Receive Export Payment

Common payment methods:

  • Advance payment
  • Letter of Credit (LC)
  • Telegraphic Transfer (TT)
  • Online payment gateways (for small shipments)

As an Indian exporter, you must:

  • Realize export proceeds within FEMA timelines
  • Obtain eBRC / FIRC
  • Maintain proper banking and GST records

Step 11: Claim Export Benefits in India

Eligible exporters can claim:

  • Zero-rated GST benefits under LUT or refund
  • RoDTEP benefits (if applicable)
  • Duty drawback (for eligible items)

Timely documentation and filing are crucial.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Exporting to Singapore

  • Incorrect HS code classification
  • Ignoring Singapore product-specific approvals
  • Incomplete import permits
  • Poor packaging or labeling
  • Weak buyer verification
  • Delayed export proceeds realization

Conclusion

Exporting from India to Singapore is one of the easiest and most efficient international trade routes due to Singapore’s transparent systems and minimal trade barriers. With the right preparation, compliance, and documentation, exporters can enter and scale quickly in the Singapore market.

By following this step-by-step guide, Indian businesses can reduce risks, avoid customs delays, and build long-term trade relationships in Singapore.

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