Blog Posts

Importing cosmetics into Singapore? HSA notification and the Customs permit are two gates with two owners. See who files each, when and in what order.

As demand for premium US-made goods continues to increase in Singapore, it is vital for soon-to-be and current importers to handle the import licence Singapore process cautiously. Most well-meaning shipments could be delayed, fined, or seized at the customs clearance point without the necessary permits. Whether you are just getting started importing or expanding your imports, knowing what is needed to obtain an import permit, which supporting documents are required, and how t

Correction, 23 October 2026: an earlier version said controlled chemicals need a certificate of origin, and it listed "Dual-Use" and "Military" export licences. Controlled chemicals that count as strategic goods need a strategic goods permit from Singapore Customs, usually with an end-user statement. Military goods and dual-use goods are two lists within the Strategic Goods Control List, and both are covered by Individual, Bulk and ITT permits. We also corrected how you get a

Correction, 21 October 2026: an earlier version of this guide said a shut-out permit covers goods sent abroad for repair. It covers goods that fail to board their vessel or aircraft. It also said Singapore Customs issues export licences. Licences for controlled goods come from the relevant Competent Authority. And it said registering with ACRA activates a Customs Account. ACRA registration gives you a UEN, and the Customs Account is activated separately. We also corrected how

The process of handling alcohol import regulations in Singapore appears complex to many individuals. Supplying liquor needs a licence from the Singapore Police Force under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. Importing it is a separate step: liquor is dutiable, so each shipment needs a Singapore Customs permit with duty and GST paid. Liquor licences are applied for through the GoBusiness portal. The Customs permits for each shipment are filed in TradeNet. KE

Most Singapore traders need a Customs permit, not a licence. See when a Competent Authority licence applies, in what order, and who issues it.

To improve their performance in the international business environment, small companies in Singapore must know how to export goods.

Acquiring the right import licence in Singapore customs might not seem to be an easy task. However, getting a clear picture of the relevant steps takes the questionable ease out of it. If you are setting up a new business or an importer going to do business in Singapore, you will definitely require the relevant permits to bring in goods within Singapore. The importing system of the country is quite organised and efficient which enhances the smooth operation herein. In this g