Import procedures and formalities in Singapore
Singapore is one of the world's most open and business-friendly economies for international trade. With a transparent legal system, developed logistics infrastructure, and fully digitized administrative procedures, the process of importing goods into Singapore is fast, efficient, and low-cost. However, to ensure full compliance and avoid legal risks, enterprises need to understand each step of the import process.
The importation of goods from abroad into Singapore is carried out through the following basic steps:
Step 1: Import Preparation
Activate the Customs Account and Register for Inter-Bank GIRO (IBG) Service
Customs declarants (including importers, exporters, carriers, freight forwarders, etc.) must register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) to obtain a Unique Entity Number (UEN). The importer must then activate a Customs Account linked to the UEN through Singapore's national single window for trade declarations (TradeNet).
In addition, the importer must set up an Inter-Bank GIRO (IBG) service with Singapore Customs in order to pay duties, fees, charges, fines, and other amounts directly from the enterprise's bank account to Singapore Customs.
Determine Whether the Goods Fall under Import Controls
Not all goods are permitted to be imported into Singapore. The country also imposes prohibitions (goods that may not be imported) and import controls (goods that may only be imported with a permit from the competent authority before importation) on certain products.
Details for step 1: https://wtocenter.vn/rcep-market/30049-import-preparation
Step 2: Classification of Goods
Determining the classification (by HS code) of goods is a very important step in Singapore's import procedures.
Enterprises must rely on the detailed description of the imported goods to determine the classification accurately in accordance with Singapore's regulations. If they are uncertain about the classification of their goods, enterprises may contact Singapore Customs for advance classification assistance.
Details for step 2: https://wtocenter.vn/rcep-market/30048-classification-of-goods
Step 3: Determine Duties and Fees
Import Duty
Singapore applies a 0% import duty rate (MFN) to almost all goods in its tariff schedule. However, a small number of tariff lines (including alcohol, tobacco, motor vehicles, and petroleum products) are still subject to import duties for social and/or environmental reasons.
As of the end of 2024, Vietnam and Singapore shared 8 FTAs. Under all of these agreements, Singapore grants a special preferential tariff rate of 0% for all tariff lines to all partners, including Vietnam, provided that the imported goods satisfy the relevant rules of origin and are accompanied by proof of origin under the corresponding FTAs.
Other Taxes
Excise Duty
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Other Fees and Charges
Details for step 3: https://wtocenter.vn/rcep-market/30047-determine-duties-and-fees
Step 4: Apply for the Customs Import Permit, Pay Duties and Fees, and Clear the Goods
The importer or its authorized customs agent will apply for a Customs Import Permit (which is similar in nature to the import customs declaration step in other countries) through Singapore's national single window for trade declarations.
After all duties and fees have been paid, the application for the Customs Import Permit will be approved with a specified validity period. The importer must present the Customs Import Permit (within its validity period) together with commercial documents (invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc.) for customs clearance.
Details for step 4: https://wtocenter.vn/rcep-market/30046-apply-for-the-customs-import-permit-pay-duties-and-fees-and-clear-the-goods
Source: Center for WTO and International Trade - VCCI
