G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
11 October  2023 
(23-6827) Page: 1/48 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
  
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF  
THE AGREEMENT ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES  (2023) 
SINGAPORE  
The following communication, dated 2 October  2023, is being circulated at the request of the  
delegation of Singapore . 
 
_______________  
 
 
1   CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - SAND AND GRANITE  ................................ ....................  2 
2   OPTICAL DISC MASTERING AND REPLICATION EQUIPMENT  ................................ ....... 4 
3   ROUGH DIAMONDS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 5 
4   CHEMICAL WEAPONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 7 
5   NATURAL GAS AND LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS  ................................ ............................  9 
6   ELECTRICITY  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  11 
7   RICE  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  13 
8   CONTROLLED DRUGS AND CONTROLLED EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS OR 
SUBSTANCES USED FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF CONTROLLED DRUGS  ......................  15 
9   THERAPEUTIC PRODUCTS, MEDICAL DEVICES, CHINESE PROPRIETARY 
MEDICINES, ORAL DENTAL GUMS, AND CELL, TISSUE AND GENE THERAPY 
PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  18 
10   TOBACCO PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ...............................  20 
11   TELECOMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT  ................................ ................................ ........  22 
12   PUBLICATIONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  24 
13   REPRODUCTION OF SINGAPORE CURRENCY IMAGES  ................................ ..............  25 
14   FRUIT MACHINES  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 27 
15   HUMAN AND ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS, TOXINS AND INACTIVATED 
BIOLOGICAL AGENTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 28 
16   MOTORISED PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICES AND POWER ASSISTED 
BICYCLES  ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................  30 
17   HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES AND HAZARDOUS WASTE  ................................ ..............  32 
18   RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS AND IRRADIATING APPARATUS  ................................ .... 34 
19   PLANTS AND PLANT MATERIALS, PRODUCTS OF LIVE ANIMALS AND BIRDS, 
AND ORNAMENTAL  FISH  ................................ ................................ ................................  37 
 
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  20   PETROLEUM AND FLAMMABLE MATERIALS  ................................ ..............................  40 
21   FOOD AND FOOD APPLIANCES  ................................ ................................ ................  41 
22   ARMS, EXPLOSIVES AND EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS  ................................ ...............  44 
23   AMUSEMENT GAMING MACHINES  ................................ ................................ ............  47 
 
1  CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS - SAND AND GRANITE  
Outline of system  
1. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) regulates the import of sand and granite, used as 
construction materials. The import of each consignment requires an import permit from BCA. 
In addition, an importer of sand and gra nite must have a valid licence. The licensee can apply for a 
licence for import of either sand or granite , or both.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. BCA's import licensing scheme covers essential construction materials, specifically sand and 
granite.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. BCA's import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. 
They are maintained for the purpose of ensuring the quality of t hese essential construction materials 
for public safety reasons.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing procedures are 
maintained are listed in the Building and Construction Authority Act. The licensing requiremen ts are 
statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing 
requirements is undertaken by BCA, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the 
abolishment of any licensing system require legi slative approval.   
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods . The time taken for processing 
the licence applications falls within the periods stipulated in the Agreement on Import 
Licensing Procedu res. 
 
(b) Processing time will be required.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for permit/licence 
and/or importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence application is effected by a single administrative body (i.e. BCA). 
The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import permit/licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. 
In the event of a refusal for issuance, the re ason(s) is/are generally provided.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for the import 
permit/licence. All importers licensed to carry on business of importing essential construction 
materials will be listed on the Register of Licensed Importers, which is accessible for free on BCA's 
website.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Documentation and other requirements for application for licen ce 
10. For Import Permit , the following informati on must be declared in the application: licence number 
issued by BCA; HS Code and Product Code; Product Quantity (in TNE); Source Code; Landing Point; 
In-Transport Mode; Port of Loading Code; Vessel Name/Vehicle Registration Number; and Arrival 
Date.  
 
For Importer's Licence , application will largely require the particulars of importer and the company. 
The following supporting documents are also required:  
 
(a) The latest copy of business profile from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority;  
(b) The procure ment plan; and  
(c) For an incorporated entity, copies of a duly passed resolution to the effect that it is duly 
authorised to carry on the business of an importer of essential construction materials and its 
memorandum and articles of association.  
 
11. Upon act ual importation, most importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing 
the correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are al so required.  
 
12. Licensing fees are required for the following classes of licences:  
 
(a) For Import Permit , a fee of S$0.12 per tonne or part thereof of the consignment to which the 
import permit is to relate; or S$10, whichever is higher.  
(b) For Importer 's Lice nce, an application/renewal fee of S$120. Application fee for a hardcopy of 
an Importer's Licence is S$30 per copy.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. An Importer 's Licence is valid for one year.  Import permit will cease to be valid once the 
importation of the concerned products is effected. The validity of these licence and permit may be 
extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuance of BCA's import permit and importers' 
licence.  
 
Other  procedural requirements  
18. The sand and granite import must meet the Test Requirements in BCA Testing Requirements for 
Imported Aggregates, in order to be determined to be of acceptable quality for use as construction 
materials in Singapore. The testing requirements comprise three stages:  
 
(a) Pre-import test (S1 test);  
(b) Confirmation test (S2 test) on first consignment from a new source; and  
(c) Random test (S3 test) on subsequent consignments imported.  
 
For new sources, importers are also required to seek BCA's approval for a storage permit and an 
isolation location plan.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  2  OPTICAL DISC MASTERING AND REPLICATION EQUIPMENT  
Outline of system  
1. Singapore Customs maintains an import licensing system for optical disc mastering and replicatio n 
equipment. Importers of optical disc mastering and replication equipment must apply for a 
Manufacturer Number from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to mastering equipment a nd replication equipment for any of the 
following:  
 
• CD (compact disc);  
• CD-ROM (compact disc -read only memory);  
• VCD (video compact disc);  
• DVD (digital video disc); and  
• DVD-ROM (digital video disc -read only memory).  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to prevent 
illegal trade of pirated goods.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Regulation of  Imports and Exports Regulations 
and the Manufacture of Optical Disc Act  (MODA) . The import licensing procedures are statutorily 
required and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing system is 
undertaken by the relevant a gencies, the designation of products  to be subjected to licensing and 
the abolishment of the licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) A licen ce issued by the EDB is required prior to the import of mastering equipment and  
replication equipment for use in Singapore. Only approved manufacturers who have been 
issued a 'Manufacturer Number ' by EDB will be allowed to import such goods.   
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made. Consideration of licen ce application is effected by a single 
administrative body.  
 
(d) The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply f or licences and no 
registration fee is required. Interested parties must first obtain a Manufacturer Number from EDB, 
before applying for an import permit from Singapore Customs.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The fol lowing information is required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, 
product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shi pment/transport and 
country /region  of origin.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such  as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. There is a fee of $10 for the application to EDB to be an approved manufacturer.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The MODA licence is valid for five years. The validity of the licence may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approv al in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. The licence  is location specific, which means that the manufacturer may only manufacture optical 
discs in the premises stated in the licence .  
 
Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
3  ROUGH DIAMONDS  
Outline of system  
1. Singapore Customs maintains an import and export licensing system for rough diamonds, as per 
the Kimberley Process Certification Sc heme (KPCS).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to rough diamonds . 
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries. As a 
participant of the KPCS, Singapore is only permitted to trade  rough diamonds with fellow KPCS 
participants. Please refer to http://www.kimberleyprocess.com/  for a list of KPCS participants.  
 
4. The licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to discharge 
Singapore's commitments under the KPCS . 
 
5. The licensing system is maintained under the Regulation of Imports and Exports (Kimberley 
Process) Regulations. The licensing system is stat utorily required and published in government 
gazettes. While  Singapore Customs administers the licensing system, the designation of products to 
be licence d and the abolishment of the licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applica ble. 
 
7.(a) Licence to import rough diamonds are processed upon receipt of the completed application 
form and full set of supporting documents. A licence would not be required if the rough 
diamonds are in transit or transhipment through  Singapore.  
 
(b) Applications  may be expedited if licensing requirements are fulfilled . 
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  (d) Consideration of licence application is effected by a single administrative body  (i.e. Singapore 
Customs ). The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria.  Singapore 
Customs will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence. Traders  may 
appeal to Singapore Customs against a rejection of their application for a Kimberley Process licence.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences and no 
registration fee is required.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in appl ications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, 
information on their business profile , product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port 
of shipment/transport and country /region  of origin.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. At the 
point of impor t, the shipment should be presented to a customs officer at the customs station along 
with the shipping documents (e.g. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice) and a valid Kimberley 
Process certificate issued by the relevant overseas KPCS participant.  
 
12. Annual fee for a Kimberley Process Licence is S$50.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of the 
licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. An issued Kimberley Process Licence is valid until the end of the calen dar year regardless of the 
date of application. The validity of these licences may be extended by renewal on an annual basis , 
subject to Customs ' approval .  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. The company to whom a Kimberley Process Licence has been issued, in relation to the 
importation and exportation of rough diamonds under the KPCS, shall abide by  the following Terms 
and Conditions:  
 
(a) To import and export rough diamonds only under a Kimberley Process Licence issued by the 
Director -General of Singapore Customs;  
(b) To import and export rough diamonds from and to participants of the KPCS only;  
(c) To allow Si ngapore Customs to submit import and export data with regard to the shipments 
declared under the KPCS in accordance with the provisions under Section  V, Annex III of the 
Kimberley Process Core Document;  
(d) To comply with Regulation 35F(1)(b) of the Regulation  of Imports and Exports Regulations to 
keep all import and export documentation including copy of Kimberley Process certificates for 
a period not less than five years;  
(e) To indicate the standard affirmative clause in all invoices to confirm that the shipment  does 
not contain conflict diamonds;  
(f) To export rough diamonds with the Kimberley Process Certificate issued by the Director -
General of Singapore Customs;  
(g) To comply with all Terms and Conditions as stated in the Kimberley Process Certificate for the 
export of rough diamonds.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
4  CHEMICAL WEAPONS  
Outline of system  
1. Singapore Customs, as the National Authority (Chemical Weapons Convention), maintains an 
import licensing system for scheduled chemicals under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to scheduled chemicals under the CWC.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports, but to discharge 
Singapore's obl igations under the CWC.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Act and its 
Regulations . The import licensing procedures are statutorily required and published in government 
gazettes. While the administration of  the licensing system is undertaken by Singapore Customs, the 
designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of the licensing system 
require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) In accordance with the Chemic al Weapons (Prohibition) Regulations, licence applications for 
Scheduled chemicals must be received by the National Authority (CWC) at least 14 working 
days prior to the import. Singapore Customs will assess and verify the application based on 
criteria suc h as the intended source of importing country and the intended destined country 
for export. Generally, applications will be processed within seven  working days upon receipt 
of the completed application form and full set of supporting documents.  
 
(b) Applic ations may be expedited if  licensing requirements are fulfilled.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Though CWC licence applications is effected by Singapore Cus toms, the importer is also 
required to seek NEA/SCDF's approval to meet the domestic safety/security requirements 
(e.g. transportation, storage, etc.).  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. Singapore 
Customs will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence. Under the 
Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Regulations, Singapore Customs may refuse to grant a CWC licence 
to an applicant if he/she has made any false or fraudulent declaration or has been convicted of an 
offence under the Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Ac t, among others. An applicant who is aggrieved 
by a decision of Singapore Customs not to grant a CWC licence to him may appeal to the Minister 
within 30 days of the decision.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, regis tered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences and no 
registration fee is required.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import licences: particular s of importer, 
product description, product quantity, and a Safety Data Sheet for each scheduled chemical to be 
imported.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of e ach consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. There are no licensing fees or administrative charges for a CWC licence currently.  
 
13. There are no deposit  or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of the 
licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. An issued CWC Licence is valid until the end of the calendar year regardless of the date of 
application. The validity of these licences may be extend ed by renewal on an annual basis.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. The Terms & Conditions of a CWC licence a re listed below:  
 
(a) Licensees  shall not develop, produce, stockpile, acquire, retain, or use Schedule 1, 2, 3 
chemicals or unscheduled Discrete Organic Chemicals (DOCs) for purposes prohibited under 
the CWC;  
(b) Licensees shall apply for the necessary permits pr ior to any import of a Schedule 1, 2, or 3 
chemical;  
(c) Licensees shall upon application for the permit or approval for the import of a Schedule 1, 2, 
or 3 chemical, provide any information as may be required by the National Authority (CWC). 
The failure to pr ovide such information shall render the import permit or approval invalid;  
(d) Licensees shall not transfer any Schedule 1 chemical to or from any CWC non -States Parties;  
(e) Licensees shall implement such security measures on or for premises storing or handling 
Schedule 1, 2 or 3 chemicals as are required from time to time by inspectors or authorized 
persons;  
(f) Licensees shall not import any Schedule 2 chemicals from a CWC non -States Party, unless the 
items are:  
 
• Products containing 1% or less by weight of a Schedule 2A or 2A* chemical;  
• Products containing 10% or less by weight of a Schedule 2B chemical; or  
• Products identified as consumer goods packaged for retail sa le for personal use or 
packaged for individual use.  
 
(g) Licensees shall declare to the National Authority (CWC) before and after any import of any 
Schedule 1 chemical;  
(h) Licensees shall declare in the prescribed forms, not later than 31 January, of the import o f 
any CWC scheduled chemical in the preceding year;  
(i) Licensees shall notify National Authority (CWC) immediately if the company has reached or 
exceeded the maximum approved aggregate for the specific scheduled chemical;  
(j) Licensees shall notify National Autho rity (CWC) immediately if there is any change in the 
licence information;  
(k) Licensees shall apply for an amendment to the licence at least 14 working days in advance for 
the: 
 
• Addition of new chemical(s);  
• Addition of new product(s) containing any licensed ch emical;  
• Addition of new activity(ies) involving any licensed chemical; or  
• Increase in the maximum aggregate allowed for the specified activity(ies) of any licensed 
chemical;  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  (l) Licensees shall provide the necessary documents to validate any permitted activit ies within 
the licence period upon request;  
(m) Licensees shall comply with all applicable written laws in Singapore, including the Chemical 
Weapons (Prohibition) Act, Chapter 37B and the Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) 
Regulations  2007.  
 
Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
5  NATURAL GAS AND LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS  
Outline of system  
1. The import of piped natural gas (PNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), except for PNG/LNG that 
are in transit or are to be transhipped, is regulated by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) and 
requires a valid Gas Importer Licence and Gas Importer (LNG) Li cence respectively, unless otherwise 
exempted by the EMA. Imports of spot LNG (i.e. contracts for supply shorter than one year), as well 
as LNG that is not conveyed  nor intended to be conveyed into Singapore 's gas supply system and 
used only for bunkering or the provision of associated gas -up and cool down services, are exempted 
from licensing.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to PNG, and Term LNG (contracts for supply for at least one year).  
 
3. The licensing system appli es to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing scheme is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. EMA's import 
licences are maintained to ensure energy security and promote competitively priced supply. Unde r 
the Gas Act, the import of natural gas requires a licence, and licences allow us to include conditions 
that ensure that the importers meet certain requirements such as reliability and safety.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Gas Act . All import licensing procedures are 
statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing 
system is undertaken by EMA, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the 
abolishment of the lice nsing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6.I Details are provided at https://www.ema.gov.sg/Licensees_Gas_Importer_LNG.aspx . While 
there is no restriction of the volume of LNG imported on a term basis (i.e. gas contracts with 
one year or long er duration), EMA imposes a 10% annual cap on the volume of spot LNG 
imported (i.e. gas contracts shorter than a year) based on long-term contracted gas quantities  
of more than ten years – such information can be found on SLNG's website at 
www.slng.com.sg . 
 
II. The number of LNG importers is decided based on the domestic gas demand growth. Importers 
compete for the new licenses based on published criteria including pricing and reliability of 
supply. As for PNG import, there is no pre -determined number of PNG impo rters as this 
depends on whether such importers can secure PNG from neighbouring countries. The tenure 
of each gas licence is extended as and when there are new gas contracts.  
 
III. Licences are not allotted for certain goods partly or only to domestic pr oducers of like goods.  
 
IV.  EMA provides a reasonable period for the submission of applications for Gas Importer (LNG) 
Licences. For the previous tranches, EMA held Requests for Proposals (RFPs) from 
30 June 2014 to 30 June 2016, from 9 July 2020 to 9  November  2020, and from 19 May 2022 
to 25 July 2022. While there is no RFP for PNG importers, as such importers can apply for a G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  licence whenever they have secured PNG from neighbouring countries, EMA responds to such 
licence applications as soon as practicabl e. 
 
V. The time taken for processing the licence applications, as and when received, falls within the 
60 days period stipulated in Article 3.5(f) of the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures.  
 
VI. There are no limitations on the period of the year durin g which importation may be made.  
 
VII. Consideration of the Gas Importer Licence application is effected by EMA. Applicants do not 
have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
VIII. EMA calls for an RFP to allocate limited number of licences for ea ch tranche of LNG import. As 
for PNG import, licences are given on a first come, first served basis.  
 
IX. Not applicable.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Application for LNG import licences follow the RFP timeline set by EMA. As for PNG imp ort, 
EMA responds to such licence applications as soon as possible.  
 
(b) EMA will use reasonable endeavours to expedite licence requests if requested.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for a Gas Importer 
Licence and/or importation of natural gas may be made.  
 
For Gas Importer (LNG) Licence, submission of application will be done under an RFP held by 
EMA. 
 
(d) Consideration of the Gas Importer Licence  application is effected by EMA. Applicants do n ot 
have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. EMA will 
generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence.  
 
Eligibility of i mporters to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for the Gas Importer 
Licence. In determining whether to grant a licence to or for a particular person, EMA will consider 
the factors stipulated under the Gas Act (e.g. abili ty of that person to finance the carrying on of the 
particular activity etc.). There is no registration fee.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. For application of the Gas Importer Licence, the required information include s particulars of the 
applicant and the applicant's directors, and details of the gas importation business 
(e.g. commencement date of gas importing, quantities of natural gas to be imported, and purpose 
of the imported gas). The submission of the following documents is required:  
 
(a) Certified true copies of the Applicant's Certificate of Incorporation;  
(b) Certified true copies of relevant ownership documents;  
(c) Certified true copies of the Applicant's gas sale agreements/gas contracts with its gas 
suppliers;  
(d) Audited past profit and loss statements, balance sheets and cash flow statements, credit 
statements or credit rating (if any), including any history of bankruptcy or financial distress 
of the Applicant or the significant shareholders for the last two full fina ncial years or since 
incorporation;  
(e) Organisation chart including resume and curriculum vitae (CV) of key appointment holders; 
and G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  (f) Description of the business plan, including details such as the purpose of importing such gas, 
the source of gas, customers, v olumes to be imported on a daily and annual basis and the 
import duration.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, gas importers are required to submit their gas contracts to EMA.  
 
12. Importers may obtain information regarding the licensing fees by contacting EMA d irectly.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A Gas Importer Licence is valid up to the expiry of all gas contracts entered into between the 
licensee and its suppliers and/or customers.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without prior approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. Licensees are required to declare annually wh ether they have complied with all the conditions 
set out in the licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
6  ELECTRICITY  
Outline of system  
1. The import of electricity is regulated by the EMA, and requires a valid Electricity Importer Licence, 
unless otherwise exempted by the EMA.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applie s to electricity imports.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing scheme is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. EMA's import 
licences are maintained to ensure ener gy security and promote competitively priced supply. Under 
the Electricity Act, the import of electricity requires a licence, and licences facilitate the regulation 
of importers by ensuring that the importers meet requirements to ensure supply reliability,  and to 
manage the impact of electricity imports on Singapore 's national power grid.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Electricity Act. All import licensing procedures 
are statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the 
licensing system is undertaken by EMA, the designation of products to be subjected to licen sing and 
the abolishment of the licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Singapore intends to procure 4GW of low -carbon electricity by 2035, through a competitive 
Request for Proposal (RFP) exercise. Interested importers may register their interest with EMA by 
submitting an Expression of Interest. Import capacity is competitive ly allocated through the RFP 
process, and will be subject to further policy deliberations, to address national concerns on energy 
security, reliability, and affordability.  More information can be found on 
https://www.ema.gov.sg/Electricity.aspx . 
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 12 - 
 
  7.(a)  The import capacity is a negotiated outcome and agreement from both EMA and the successful 
importer. In the importer licence, the "approved " maximum import limit would b e specified in 
detail.   
 
(b)  EMA will use reasonable endeavours to expedite licence requests if requested.  
 
(c)  Import licences would be pegged to project or contract lifespan.  
 
(d)  Consideration of the Electricity Importer Licence application is effec ted by EMA. Applicants do 
not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. The issuance of an importer licence is subject to the importers meeting a list of Condition 
Precedents set out by the EMA. Failure to meet these Conditional Precedents wo uld be one reason 
for EMA 's refusal to issue an importer licence in the first place. In addition, the importer licence 
would also stipulate a list of requirements (conditions) that an importer would need to adhere to. 
Consistent failure to meet the conditi ons set out in the importer licence may also led to revocation 
of the importer licence. EMA will ensure that we would provide importers with sufficient notice period 
to correct non -compliance before taking remediation actions.  
 
Eligibility of importers to  apply for a licence  
9. Singapore intends to procure 4GW of low -carbon electricity by 2035, through a competitive 
Request for Proposal (RFP) exercise. Interested importers may register their interest with the EMA 
by submitting an Expression of Interest. Import capacity is competitively and exclusively allocated 
by EMA through the RFP process. All entities keen to import electricity must participate in the RFP. 
The list of successful importers would be published online.  
 
Documentation and other r equirements for application for licence  
10. For application of the Electricity Importer Licence, the required information includes particulars 
of the applicant and the applicant's directors, and details of the electricity importation business 
(e.g. commenc ement date of electricity importing, quantities of electricity to be imported, and 
purpose of the electricity). The submission of the following documents is required:  
 
(a) Certified true copies of the Applicant's Certificate of Incorporation;  
(b) Certified true copies of relevant ownership documents;  
(c) Audited past profit and loss statements, balance sheets and cash flow statements, credit 
statements or credit rating (if any), i ncluding any history of bankruptcy or financial distress 
of the Applicant or the significant shareholders for the last two full financial years or since 
incorporation;  
(d) Organisation chart including resume and curriculum vitae (CV) of key appointment holder s; 
and 
(e) Description of the business plan, including details such as the purpose of importing such 
electricity, the source of electricity, customers, volumes to be imported on a daily and annual 
basis and the import duration.  
 
11. Documents required upon act ual importation are specified in the RFP document found in  
https://www.ema.gov.sg/electricity -imports -rfp1.aspx  and https://www.ema.gov.sg/electricity -
imports -rfp2.aspx .  
 
12. Licence fees will apply. Importers may obtain information by contacting EMA directly.  
 
13. Importer licensees are required to pay a nnual licensing fees. There are no deposits or advance 
payments required.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import licences would be pegged to project or contract lifespan.  
 
15. The import licence underpins other technical requirements viz. performance standards. Failure 
to meet such performance standards may be penalisable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 13 - 
 
  16. Licences are not transferable without prior approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. Licensees are required to declare annually whether they have complied with all the conditions 
set out in the licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative pr ocedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
7  RICE  
Outline of system  
1. In Singapore, rice of all descriptions is a controlled item. Companies are required to apply for a 
valid licence to import, re -export and conduct wholesale dealings in rice. They are also required to 
apply for permits and obtain approvals for every impo rt and re -export consignment of rice. 
This licensing system generally divides rice imports into two categories, requiring (i) a stockpile 
licence; and (ii) non -stockpile licence. For imports of stockpile grade rice, companies will need to 
participate in th e Rice Stockpile Scheme (RSS).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Under the RSS, all white rice, basmati rice, ponni rice and parboiled rice are classified as stockpile 
grade rice. Other types of rice such as husked rice and glutinous rice are classifie d as non -stockpile 
grade rice.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to rice originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. RSS ensures that there should be an adequate supply of rice in the market. Rice is an important 
staple food for Singapore and there is  no domestic production.  
 
5. The RSS is currently operated under the legal framework for the Price Control Act (Cap 244) and 
the Price Control (Rice) Order 1990. The licensing requirements are statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. Whil e the administration of the licensing requirements is 
undertaken by Enterprise Singapore (E nterprise SG), the designation of products to be subjected to 
licensing and the abolishment of any licensing system require legislative approval.   
 
Procedures  
6.I. There is no maximum quota for the importation of rice. All stockpile licensees who import 
stockpile grade rice for local distribution are required to participate in the RSS. Under this 
scheme, licensees shall keep a rice stockpile quantity, which is derived from their import 
quantities. Information is available at https://rice.enterprisesg.gov.sg/ . 
 
II. Stockpile  licensees who import white rice have to pre -commit the Monthly Import Quantity 
(MIQ), which is the quantity that they wish to import every month for local distribution. 
The minimum MIQ is 50 tonnes. The licensees can adjust their MIQ under certain conditi ons 
and notice period.  
 
Stockpile licensees who import basmati rice, ponni rice and parboiled rice are not subject to 
MIQ. They need to pre -commit the import quantity for local distribution for a six-month period 
and can adjust their Max Import Quantity u nder certain conditions and notice period.  
 
III. The import  licensing system applies to all types of rice and rice imported from all countries. 
All stockpile licensees are required to participate in the RSS.  
 
IV. There  are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence may 
be made.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 14 - 
 
  V. Generally, it would take three working days to process the application, upon receiving all 
necessary documents.  
 
VI. There are no limitations on the perio d of the year during which importation may be made.  
 
VII. Rice licence applications are processed by EnterpriseSG . The importer does not have to 
approach more than one administrative body.  
 
VIII. The licences are processed and issued on a first come, first  serve basis. There is no maximum 
amount allocated per applicant.  
 
IX. Not applicable . 
 
X. Not applicable . 
 
XI. Rice imported into Singapore's Free Trade Zone under licence to import rice for re -export 
should be exported and not sold in the domestic market . 
 
7. Not applicable.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. 
Enterprise SG will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence. 
Unsuccessful applicants can appeal by con tacting E nterprise SG. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Singapore -registered companies are eligible to apply for rice licence. The lists of licensees are 
published at https://rice.enterprisesg.gov.sg/ . 
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Information required in the licence application includes information such as the type of licence, 
types of rice, applicant's particulars, organisation's details, MIQ, import starting date, country of 
import, det ails of rice supplier and warehousing details. Applicants are also required to submit their 
business profile obtainable from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority  (ACRA) . 
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice  are also required.  
 
12. Enterprise SG charges a fee of S$50 for a lifetime licence.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The licence has a lifetime period of validi ty. 
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it. Non -fulfilment of licensing 
conditions may result in revocation of licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. The licensing conditions are attached to the issuance of the licence and are available at 
https://rice.enterprisesg.gov.sg/ . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
admin istrative procedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  8  CONTROLLED DRUGS AND CONTROLLED EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS OR SUBSTANCES 
USED FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF CONTROLLED DRUGS  
Outline of system  
1. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapor e and the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) jointly 
regulate the import, export or transhipment of any controlled drugs and substances, including poppy 
seeds and its products.  
 
Singapore abides by the International Narcotics Control Board's (INCB) allocation  of quotas for 
narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances controlled under the United Nations (UN) Single 
Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 as amended by the 1972 Protocol and UN Convention on 
Psychotropic Substances 1971. Substances listed under the UN Co nvention against Illicit Traffic in 
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988 are controlled in accordance to the Convention.  
 
A HSA licence is issued after evaluating that the applications of import and export for controlled 
drugs meet the national legislative requirements and complies to  the UN Conventions. A CNB licence 
is required for the application of an import permit for co ntrolled equipment, materials or substances 
used for the manufacturing of controlled drugs. Importation of poppy seeds or any food products 
containing poppy seeds requires the Inward Declaration Form to be approved by CNB.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensin g 
2. The controlled drugs (International controlled narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances) and 
precursor chemical subject to HSA's and CNB's import and export licensing procedures are listed in 
the table below.  
 
Product  Laws/Regulations  
Substances regulated as controlled drugs (CD), as 
specified in the First Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act  Misuse of Drugs Act and its Regulations  
Controlled equipment, materials or substances used for 
the manufacturing of controlled drugs, as specified in 
the Third Schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act  Misuse of Drugs Act and its Regulations  
Poppy Seeds (kaskas)  Regulation of Imports and Exports Regulations  
 
In addition, some of the psychotropic substances listed in the UN Convention on Psychotropic 
Substances 1971 are subject to control under HSA's regulations relating to therapeutic products, 
pharmaceutical substances and clinical research materials. This li censing system is described in the 
next section on Medical and Therapeutic Products.  
 
3. The licensing requirements apply to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing requirements are for health and safety reasons, and to dis charge Singapore's 
obligations under international agreements, such as the 1961 United Nations Single Convention on 
Narcotic Drugs, the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances, and the 1988 
Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic D rugs and Psychotropic Substances.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing procedures are 
maintained, are listed in our response to Question 2. The licensing requirements are statutorily 
required and published in go vernment gazettes. While the administration of the licensing 
requirements is undertaken by the respective agency, the designation of products to be subjected 
to licensing and the abolishment of any licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6.I. The INCB allocates annual quotas, based on the local consumption needs and publishes such 
information on its website.  The quota does not discriminate between countries of origin. There 
is no limit to the amount an importer can import as long as Singapore's quota for that 
controlled drug is not exceeded at the time of import, and the purpose of the import is for 
legitimate uses (e.g. medical needs, scientific research or testing). Where there is a need to 
go beyond Singapore's current annual quota s due to legitimate reasons, HSA can submit a 
request to INCB for an increase in the quota allotted.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 16 - 
 
  II.  The import licence is valid for the import consignment of a specific controlled drug for 6 months 
from the date of issuance. The importer will need to  apply for a new import licence for another 
consignment or if the licence has expired.  
 
III. The quota applies to all narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances controlled under the UN 
Drug Conventions. Unused quantities from unfulfilled importations are c redited back to the 
quota for the current year. There is no carryover of unused quantity from the previous year. 
Prior to importation of the narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances into Singapore, the 
competent authority of the exporting country will re quest for Singapore's import licence to 
ascertain that Singapore has authorised the import before a corresponding export licence is 
issued. The import licence contains details of the substance to be imported, particulars of the 
importer and exporter, purpo se of import, licence validity period and licensing conditions.  
 
IV. There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence may 
be made.  
 
V. Import  licences for controlled drugs will be issued within 20 working days upon receipt of the 
completed application form and full set of supporting documents.  
 
VI. There are no limitations on the period of the year during which importation may be made. 
Import licences are granted for immediate importation and are valid for six months from the 
date of issuance.  
 
VII. Consideration of importer's licences for controlled drugs is effected by a single administrative 
body (i.e. HSA). The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
VIII.  The licences are proc essed and issued on a first come, first serve basis. There is no maximum 
amount allocated per applicant as long as Singapore's quota for that controlled drug is not 
exceeded and the purpose of import is for legitimate use.  
 
IX. Singapore 's national legisla tion, the Misuse of Drugs Act and Misuse of Drugs Regulations, 
mandates the application for licences to import and export controlled drugs. Licences are  only 
issued after regulatory evaluation to determine that the importer meets the requirements. 
The UN S ingle Convention on Narcotic Drugs requires the authorisation from both the 
importing and exporting countries for the controlled narcotic drug or psychotropic substance.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. All imports should be for legitimate uses, whether it is for local consumption or for export. If 
the importer has declared for a consignment of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances to 
be imported for export only, this purpose of the request will be indicated on the import licence, 
and the quantity approved for  import will not be counted towards Singapore's annual quota.  
 
7.(a) For poppy seeds, controlled equipment, materials or substances used for the manufacturing 
of controlled drugs , permit applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods. 
The application processing time generally takes give working days if all required supporting 
documents are provided.  
 
 For controlled drugs , application for import licence must be submitted to HSA at least 20 
working days in advance of importation , providing all required supporting documents . 
Controlled drugs are not allowed to be imported without an import licence.  
 
(b) Processing time will be required as per the application type. Please refer to 7(a).  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period o f the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) For controlled equipment, materials or substances , the consideration of application is effected 
by solely CNB. For poppy seeds and its products, the importer must first o btain a sample 
analysis report from HSA. If there are no traces of morphine detected, CNB will endorse and 
approve the Inward Declaration Form.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 17 - 
 
   For controlled drugs , applications of import licences are processed by HSA.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. In the 
event of a refusal for issuance, the reason(s) is/are generally provided. An applicant who is refused 
a licence may appeal against the decision in writing for reconsideration.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Prior to applying for licences to import controlled drugs or psychotropic substances, the importer 
has to hold the relevant licences issued by HSA as outlined in paragraph 9 of section 9 below on 
Therapeuti c Products, Medical Devices, Chinese Proprietary Medicines, Oral Dental Gums, and Cell, 
Tissue and Gene Therapy Products.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for impor t permits: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and Businesses, 
product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product 
brand/serial number/model/make,  country of origin, applicant details, warehouse details and 
responsible person. The following additional information is required for the specified permits:  
 
• For application of import permit for controlled equipment, materials or substances , a valid 
CNB Li cence number, descriptions of goods and packaging, purpose and usage of goods, date 
of permit application, name of supplier and consignee.  
• For application of HSA's licence , the requirements can be found on its website.  
• For application of CNB's licence , the necessary supporting documents include sale agreement, 
invoice and purchase order.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of ea ch consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
For poppy seeds and its products , the submission of the Inward Declaration Form should be 
accompanied by a HSA s ample analysis report, and an export authorisation issued by the exporting 
country, if any.  
 
12. The fees related to HSA's import licence are published on HSA's website. CNB does not charge 
any licensing fee or administrative charge.  
 
13. There are no depo sit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. For the import of controlled drugs, the licence, approval or authorisation is issued on a per 
consignment basis and is valid for six months from the date of issuance. There is no renewal for an 
import licence.  
 
CNB's importer licence is valid for three  months and the validity may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are no t transferable.  
 
17. The import licence contains details of the substance to be imported, particulars of the importer 
and exporter, purpose of import, licence validity period and licensing conditions. The quantity should 
not exceed the quantity stated on t he licence and has to be imported in one consignment .  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 18 - 
 
  19. Not applicable.  
 
9  THERAPEUTIC PRODUCTS , MEDICAL DEVICES, CHINESE PROPRIETARY MEDICINES, 
ORAL DENTAL GUMS, AND CELL, TISSUE AND GENE THERAPY PRODUCTS  
Outline of system  
1. Therapeutic products, medical devices, Chinese proprietary medicines , oral dental gum , and cell, 
tissue and gene therapy products are subject to licensing/approval requirements of the Health 
Science s Authority (HSA) of Singapore before an import licence/approval can be issued for their 
entry into Singapore.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensin g 
2. The products subject to HSA's import licensing procedures are listed in the table below.  
 
Product  Laws/Regulations  
Chinese proprietary medicines  Medicines Act and its Regulations  
Clinical research materials  Health Products (Clinical Research Materials) Regulations  
Clinical research materials containing 
psychotropic substances  Health Products (Clinical Research Materials) Regulations  
Medical Devices  Heath Products (Medical Devices) Regulations  
Therapeutic products  Health Products (Therapeutic Products) Regulations  
Substances specified in the Poisons Act  Poisons Act and its Rules  
Oral Dental Gums  
 • Health Products (Oral Dental Gums) Regulations  
• Regulation of Imports and Exports (Chewing Gum) 
Regulations  
Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Products  Health Products (Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Products) 
Regulations  
 
3. HSA's licensing requirements apply to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing requirements are maintained for health and safety reasons. They are not intended 
to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing requirements are 
maintained are listed in Question /Paragraph  2. The licensing requirements are statutorily required 
and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing requirements is 
undertaken by HSA, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of 
any licensing system require legisla tive approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Singapore abides by the International Narcotics Control Board's (INCB) allocation of quotas for 
narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances controlled under the UN Single Convention on Narcotic 
Drugs 1961 as amended by the 1972  Protocol and UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances 1971. 
Therapeutic products or clinical research materials that contain controlled drugs or psychotropic 
substances are also subject to INCB's quota system. Such therapeutic products or clinical researc h 
materials are regulated by HSA through licensing procedures similar to that of controlled drugs, as 
described in our response to Section 8  above . 
 
7. (a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods.  
 
Importer's licence will be issued w ithin ten working days from the date of completion of the 
necessary audit (excluding any time incurred by the applicant's request for clarifications and 
additional information). For Oral Dental Gum, the issuance of the relevant importer's licence 
does not require a n audit.  
 
Importing of clinical research materials for use in clinical trials  does not require an import 
licence and can be carried out after a Clinical Research Material Notification (CRM -N) has been 
made to HSA.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 19 - 
 
  For therapeutic products or clinical rese arch materials containing controlled drugs , HSA 
licensing procedures is described in Paragraph 7 of the Controlled Drugs section  8 above.  
 
Approval to import a therapeutic product containing psychotropic substance  will be issued 
within 20 working days if all relevant supporting documents are provided. Application 
requirements can be found on HSA website.  
 
(b) Processing time will be required as per the application type. Please refer to 7(a).  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of importer's licence is effected by a single administrative body (i.e. HSA). The 
importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An applicat ion for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. In the 
event of a refusal for issuance, the reason(s) is/are generally provided. Applicant who is refused a 
licence may appeal against the decision in writing for reconsidera tion.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for import 
licence/approval. The licensee must appoint a registered pharmacist to be the responsible person 
when appl ying for:  
 
• A Form A Poisons Licence, for dealing in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) that are 
intended for local clinical use.  
• An importer's licence for therapeutic products if the company is dealing with:  
o Pharmacy -only medicines (P -only);  
o Prescrip tion-only medicines (POM) for local supply;  
o Controlled drugs that are in the form of therapeutic products;  
o Therapeutic Products containing psychotropic substances; and 
o Unregistered therapeutic products for patients' use.  
 
Importers of therapeutic products, poisons  (active pharmaceutical ingredients intended for local 
clinical use ), Chinese proprietary medicines and cell, tissue and gene therapy products  are required 
to comply with HSA's Good Distribution Practice (GDP) requirements to e nsure that products are 
handled, stored and distributed in an appropriate manner to assure their quality and integrity 
throughout the supply chain. Issuance of importer 's licence is subject to the satisfactory close -out 
of GDP audit.  
 
Importers of medical  devices of risk categories other than Class A medical devices  are required to 
be certified to ISO 13485 or Good Distribution Practice for Medical Devices (GDPMDS) as a pre -
requisite for licence application. Certification to GDPMDS is performed by third pa rty certification 
bodies that are accredited by the Singapore Accreditation Council.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for importer 's licence : particulars of 
importer , company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and 
Businesses, product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, 
product brand/serial number/model/make and country of origin, applicant d etails, warehouse details 
and responsible person. In addition, importers of the products listed under question 2 are required 
to apply and obtain an importer's licence from HSA, whose requirements can be found on its website.  
 
Therapeutic products, medica l devices (unless it is a Class A medical device which is exempted from 
registration), Chinese proprietary medicines, oral dental gums, cell tissue and gene therapy products 
(unless it is a Class 1  Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Products (CTGTP) which is ex empted from 
registration)  are required to be registered with HSA prior to importation.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 20 - 
 
  Therapeutic products, medical devices and Class 2 CTGTPs imported through a special 
authorisation/approval route from HSA (e.g. for re -exports, supply to ships and/or aircraft, clinical 
trials, non -clinical purposes and personal use)  do not require a product registration.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment  made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. The various fees related to registration of products/devices and importer's licences are published 
on HSA's website.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The importer licences for therapeutic products, medical devices, Chinese proprietary medicines, 
and oral dental gum and cell, tissue and gene therapy products  are issued with one -year validity.  
 
For the import of controlled drugs and psychotropic substances , the licence, approval or 
authorisation is issued on a per consignment basis and is valid for six months from the date of 
issuance.  
 
For therapeutic products , HSA offers annual and consignment licences.  
 
The validity of annual licences may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. Except for the quantitative import per consignment for controlled drugs and psychotropic 
substances, importers of therapeutic products, medical devices, poisons and Chinese prop rietary 
medicines , oral dental gums  and cell, tissue and gene therapy products are not subject to any 
quantitative restrictions.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
admini strative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
10  TOBACCO PRODUCTS  
Outline of system  
1. Tobacco products are subject to licensing/approval requirements of the Health Science Authority 
(HSA) of Singapore before an import and wholesa le licence can issued for their entry into Singapore.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to tobacco products.  
 
3. HSA's licensing requirements applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The purpos e for the licensing of tobacco importers/wholesalers is to better regulate the supply 
and distribution of tobacco products in the Singapore market and to ensure greater accountability 
and compliance by these importers.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are main tained in the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act 
and its Regulations. The licensing requirements are statutorily required and published in government 
gazettes. While the administration of the licensing requirements is undertaken by HSA, the G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 21 - 
 
  designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of any licensing system 
require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods. The import and wholesale 
licence for tobacco products will be issued within 14 working days from the date of completion 
of the necessary inspection (excluding any time incurred by the applicant's request for 
clarifications and additional information).  
 
(b) Processing tim e will be required as per indicated in 7(a).  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of importer's licence is effected by a single administrative body . The 
importer/wholesaler do not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import and wholesale licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated 
criteria. In the event of a refusal for issuance, the reason(s) is/are  generally provided. Applicant who 
is refused a licence may appeal against the decision in writing for reconsideration.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All registered firms are eligible to apply for the licence.  
 
Documentation and othe r requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import permits: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and Businesses, 
product descrip tion, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product 
brand/serial number/model/make, country of origin, applicant details, warehouse details and 
responsible person .  
 
The following information is required in applications for a tob acco import and wholesale licence: 
particulars of the licence applicant/company, warehouse and office details, manufacturer details and 
brands/types of tobacco products to be imported.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward  Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. The various fees related to the import and w holesale licence are published on HSA's website.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import and wholesale licence for tobacco products is issued with one-year validity. The 
validity may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17. The licensing conditions attached to the issuance of the import and wholesa le licence can be 
found on HSA's website.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 22 - 
 
  Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
11  TELECOMMUNIC ATION EQUIPMENT  
Outline of system  
1. The Info -communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) regulates the import of 
telecommunication equipment in to Singapore. Import of telecommunications equipment for sale  
require a Telecommunication Dealer's Licence from IMDA, and an import permit from Singapore 
Customs.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to  the import for sale of  telecommunication equipment  in Singapore . 
Product  Licensing System  
Telecommunication Equipment  
 • TradeNet – Application for import permit  
• GoBusiness Licensing – Application for Telecommunications 
Dealer 's Licence  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. 
The purpose is to ensure compatibility and non -interference with authorised telecommunications 
networks and systems.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained unde r the Telecommunication (Dealers) Regulations. All 
import licensing procedures are statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While 
the administration of the licensing system is undertaken by the relevant licensing authorities, the 
designat ion of products to be subjected to licensing requires legislative approval and is not left to 
the discretion of the administration. Similarly, legislative approval must be obtained before the 
government abolishes any licensing system.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not ap plicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications for the Telecommunication Dealer 's Licence and import permit should be made 
prior to the import for sale of the telecommunication equipment . Both can be obtained 
immediately on application through online systems, i.e. TradeNet and GoBusiness Licensin g 
portals  respectively , except for Machine to Machine and prohibited telecommunication 
equipment . 
 
(b) Both the import permit and Telecommunicati on Dealer's licence can be granted immediately 
on application through TradeNet and GoBusiness Licensing  respectively, except for Machine 
to Machine and prohibited telecommunication equipment . 
 
(c)  There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d)  Consideration of importer's licence applications is effected by a single administrative body. 
The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An appli cation for import permit or licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. 
IMDA will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence or approve the 
permit. Pursuant to the Telecommunications Act 1999, unsuccess ful applicants may make a request 
for IMDA to reconsider the application or appeal to the Minister.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 23 - 
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for the import licences. 
Applicants must be a company incorporated under the Singapore Companies Act, a Limited Liability 
Partnership under the Singapore Limited Liability Partnerships Act, or a business registered with the 
Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore.  
 
There are two categories of licences for dealing in telecommunications equipment:  
 
• A holder of  Telecommunication Dealer's Class Licence  can only deal with  registered  
telecommunications  equipment or telecommunications equipment set out in the First Sched ule 
of the Telecommunications (Dealers) Regulations.  
• A holder of  Telecommunication Dealer's Individual Licence  can, in addition to equipment 
covered under the Telecommunication Dealer 's Class Licence, also deal in telecommunications 
equipment  that is not registered equipment for re -export . Non -registered  telecommunications 
equipment (e.g. CDMA phones that are not compatible with domestic networks and may cause 
interference) is not allowed to be sold for use in Singapore.  
 
No person shall impor t prohibited telecommunications equipment set out in the Third Schedule of 
the Telecommunications (Dealers) Regulations (e.g. radio -frequency jammers, military equipment) 
without the prior approval of IMDA.  
 
Any person intending to use any telecommunicatio ns equipment for personal purposes will not be 
required to obtain the approval of IMDA provided that such equipment is designed, constructed, 
installed, established, maintained and operated in accordance with such standards and specifications 
as may be pub lished by IMDA.  
 
IMDA charges a one -time registration fee of S$50 for the Telecommunication Dealer's Class Licence; 
and a licensing fee of S$250 for the Telecommunication Dealer's Individual Licence, which is valid 
for up to five years.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and Businesses, 
product de scription, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product 
brand/serial number/model/make and country of origin.  
 
For applications to deal in telecommunications equipment, documents on the technical specifications 
of the products are required.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet.  
 
12. IMDA charges a one -time registration fee  of S$50 for the Telecommunication Dealer's Class 
Licence  and a licensing fee of S$250 for the Telecommunication Dealer's Individual Licence , which 
is valid for up to five years. IMDA does not impose import permit  fees. 
 
13. There are no deposit or advance  payment requirements associated with the issuance of 
Telecommunication Dealer's licences to sell telecommunications equipment or import permit.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import permit ceases to be valid once the importation of the concerned telecom munications 
equipment is effected. The validity of Telecommunication Dealer's Individual Licence  is five years 
and may be extended by renewal.  The Telecommunication Dealer's Class Licence is a lifetime licence.   
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilisation  or a portion of it  of the import permit, 
Telecommunication  Dealer's Class Licence  or Telecommunication Dealer 's Individual Licence . 
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 24 - 
 
  17. Not App licable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
12  PUBLICATIONS  
Outline of system  
1. The Info -communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) regulates the distribution of 
publications in Singapore using the Undesirable Publications Act (UPA). Importation of publications 
require an import permit from Singapore Customs. There are no further licensing  requirements from 
IMDA to import publications.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. An import permit is required for the import of publications, including books, magazines, 
newspapers, other printed materials, and audio recordings.  
 
3. Import permits are required for products coming from all countries.  
 
4. The import procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. The import procedures are maintained under the Undesirable Publications Act to ensure that 
objectionab le and prohibited publications are not distributed in Singapore. The administration of the 
UPA is undertaken by the relevant licensing authorities.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications for import permit should be made in advance of arrival o f the goods. An import 
permit can be obtained immediately on application through online systems.  
 
(b) The import permit can be granted on the same working day upon receipt of a complete 
submission of required information and documents.  
 
(c)  There are no l imitations on the period of the year during which applications for a permit and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d)  Import permit applications for publications are routed to IMDA for approval. Nonetheless, 
Singapore Customs will give the final approval after  reviewing the document against Customs' 
other import requirements. The importer does not have to approach more than one 
administrative body.  
 
8. An application for import permit is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. IMDA will 
generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to approve the permit.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. For import permits, all persons, registered firms, and institutions are eligible to apply and no 
registration fee is required.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import permits: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companie s and Businesses, G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 25 - 
 
  product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product 
brand/serial number/model/make, country of origin, the title and number of copies of the 
publication.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers ar e required to provide the import permit showing the correct 
description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet.  
 
12. There are no import permit fees.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with  the issuance of import 
permit.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import permit ceases to be valid once the importation of the concerned publications is 
effected.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of the import permit or a portion of it.  
 
16. Import permits are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. There are no other conditions attached to the issuance of the import permit.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative proc edures, apart from applying for the import permit.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
13  REPRODUCTION OF SINGAPORE CURRENCY IMAGES  
Outline of system  
1. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) maintains import licensing procedures on 
merchandise or products containing a photograph, drawing or design or part thereof used in or on 
any Singapore currency note or coin.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The products subject to MAS' non -automatic import licensing procedures are listed in the following 
table.  
 
Product  Laws and Regulations Authorising 
Import Licensing  Controlling 
Agency  
Merchandise or product containing:  
 
• any photograph of, or any drawing or design 
in any size, scale or colour, resembling; or  
• any design or part thereof used in or on,  any 
Singapore currency note or coin.  Currency Act 1967  MAS 
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. Singapore 's import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of 
imports. They are maintained for national security reasons.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Currency Act 1967. All import licensing 
procedures are stat utorily required and published in government gazettes. While the administration 
of the licensing system is undertaken by MAS, the designation of products to be subjected to 
licensing and the abolishment of the system require legislative approval.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 26 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable  as Singapore does not have quotas or export restraint arrangement for the stated 
products in Question 2 . 
 
7.(a)  Applications should be made in advance before the arrival of the goods in Singapore. Sellers 
who have the intent t o manufacture goods overseas and to import such goods into Singapore 
are encouraged to seek early permission from MAS, so as  to avoid any wastage of resources 
in the event that such goods are not approved for import into Singapore.  
 
(b) MAS requires time f or clarification and assessment before granting approval.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence application is effected by a single admin istrative body. The importer 
does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the requirements of MAS. In the 
event of a refusal to issue a licence, MAS will generally prov ide the reason(s). Although there are no 
avenues for appeal under the Currency Act 1967, an aggrieved applicant has a right to bring an 
action for judicial review in the Singapore Courts.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all p ersons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply to MAS for a licence.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applicants are required to submit visuals or samples of the merchandise or product.  
 
11. Upon actual  importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also requi red. 
 
12. MAS does not impose any licensing fee for imports. However,  please check with MAS as to 
whether there are other fees applicable (e.g. royalty fees) for the use of Singapore currency images 
on merchandise or products.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity is assessed on a case -by-case basis. Any application for the extension of 
the validity period would be subject to further review.   
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from MAS.  
 
17. Reproduction of Singapore currency images on any product or merchandise must adhere to the 
list of conditions on currency reproduction, which can be found in the following link: 
https://www.mas.gov.sg/currency/Using -Images -of-Singapore -Currency . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedure s, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Foreign exchange issues are not applicable to import licensing for Singapore, as only Singapore -
registered importers are able to obtain licences.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 27 - 
 
  14  FRUIT MACHINES  
Outline of system  
1. The Gambling Regulatory Authority  (GRA) regulates the import of fruit machines ("FMs"). GR A's 
approval for the import of the FMs is required before an import permit can be issued for the FMs' 
entry into Singapore.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The system for the approval of FMs' i mport covers all types of fruit machines, jackpot machines 
or electronic gaming machines.   
 
3. The system applies to FMs originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. 
They are maintained for public safety reasons.  
 
5. The approval procedures are stipulated in the Regulation of Imports and Exports Regulations. All 
import permit procedures are statutorily required and published in government gazettes. Wh ile the 
administration of the permit issuance is undertaken by GRA, the designation of FMs/jackpot 
machines, as controlled imports to be subjected for approval before an import permit can be granted, 
and the abolishment of the approval of these controlled imports require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) All applications received will be processed on first come, first serve basis. Importers are 
required to submit their applications before the arrival of the goods in Singapore.  
 
(b) An approval cannot be granted immediately on request. Any application has to be duly 
reviewed and assessed by GRA before it undertakes the decision to approve or reject the 
application.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for approval and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d)  Consideration of approval application is effected by a single administrative body, i.e. GRA. The 
importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an  approval is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. GRA may 
provide the reason for refusal for a permit, which may be reviewed by GRA should the importer 
provide new or additional relevant information.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a  licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply under the permit 
system.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Application for GRA's approval must be supported with any prior appro vals from GRA for (1) FM 
usages in Casinos and Gaming Machine Room within the clubhouse, (2) FM usag e for compliance 
testing and certification purposes, and (3) FMs meant as exhibits for tradeshows or showrooms of 
the manufacturers /suppliers.  Import request for purposes not for such permit holders will have to 
seek GRA's approval, with relevant supportin g documents for GRA's considerations on a case -by-
case basis.  
 
For applications  for import permits, the following information is required: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and Businesses  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 28 - 
 
  (if applicable) , product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, 
product brand/serial number/model/make and country of origin.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declarati on showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. GRA does not charge any licensing or administrative fe es for the importation of FMs.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of import 
permits.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import permit ceases to be valid once the importation of the concerned FM is completed . 
The validity of the permit may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Import permits are not transferrable.  
17. Applicants must ensure that these FMs are to be used in Singapore clubs  for the purpose stated 
in the permit application (i.e., usage in Casinos, Gaming Machine Room of a clubhouse and exhibits 
for tradeshows or showrooms of the manufacturers/suppliers).  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative proc edures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
15  HUMAN AND ZOONOTIC PATHOGENS, TOXINS AND INACTIVATED BIOLOGICAL 
AGENTS  
Outline of system  
1. The Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) regulates the import and transhipment of human 
pathogens, selected  microbial  toxins and inactivated ( higher risk group) biological agents. MOH and 
the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) jointly regulate the import and transhipment of zoonotic  
pathogens.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Import permits are required for the importation of biological agents and selected microbial  toxins, 
which are capable of causing death, disease or other biological malfunction in a human. 
The requirement for import permit is also applicable to any material (e.g. clinical samples, biological 
specimens, environmental samples and proficiency test samples) that are known to contain the 
biological agents and selected  microbial  toxins. MOH also contr ols the importation of inactivated 
(higher risk group) biological agents.  
 
The list of biological agents and selected microbial toxins requiring import permits is categorised 
according to their risk profile under the Biological Agents and Toxins Act (BATA ) First to Fourth 
Schedule for biological agents and Fifth Schedule for selected microbial toxins.  
 
Do note that the list is non -exhaustive, and stakeholders are advised to consult MOH on import 
requirements for biological agents/items not on the list, pr ior to the importation.  
 
3. The system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 29 - 
 
  4. Singapore's import requirements for the biological agents and  microbial  toxins regulated under 
the BATA are intended to safeguard national safety a nd security in relation to the biological agents 
and toxins.  
 
5. The import permit requirement for the biological agents and toxins  is stipulated under the BATA , 
which are statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While the administration of the 
permit  requirements is undertaken by MOH, the designation of products to be controlled  and the 
abolishment of such control  system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) MOH advises importers to submit applications for import permits at least 5 working days 
before the item is scheduled to arrive in Singapore. An import permit is usually processed 
within four working days provided all the criteria/requirements for the appli cation has been 
satisfied.  
 
(b) An import permit can be  granted immediately on request if all the criteria/requirements for 
the application have been satisfied.  
 
(c) Import permit applications and its associated requirements can be made throughout the yea r. 
 
(d) Import permit  for a microbial toxin, inactivated biological agent or solely human pathogen, is 
effected by a single administrative body (i.e. MOH) and the importer does not have to 
approach more than one administrative body. However, as MOH and AVS jointly control 
zoonotic pathogens, t he import permit/licence for zoonotic pathogens may require approval 
from both MOH and AVS.  
 
8. An application for an import permit is granted if all stipulated criteria are met. MOH will provide 
the reason(s) in the event an import permit application is r ejected.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Applicants must be registered with MOH and be granted an approval to possess the respective 
biological agent/toxin, prior to the application and granting of an import permit for BATA First 
Sched ule biological agents, Second Schedule biological agents, and Fifth Schedule toxins. Conditions 
of the approval are available on the biosafety website ( http://www.moh.gov.sg/biosafety/home ). 
 
Import permit for BATA Fourth Schedule biological agents does not require additional prior approvals.  
 
The registration fee can be found on the following TradeNet weblink:  
(https://www.tradenet.gov.sg/infrastructure/ora/rel1_0/info/plan/TradeNet_Fee_Details_7Nov202
2.pdf)  
 
Documenta tion and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Import permit applications are made on TradeNet. An inward declaration is required and must 
accurately state numerous information such as the description and quantities of each consignment, 
partic ulars of importer and company and company registration number. Additional documents such 
as shipping documents (i.e. airway bills, house airway bills, commercial invoice) may also be 
required. For inactivated biological agents, evidential documentation of inactivation verification must 
also be submitted.  
 
11. Importers are required to produce the import permit granted for the biological agents/toxins for 
the release from Singapore Customs.  
 
12. MOH does not charge any import permit  fees. 
 
13. MOH does not require any deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the 
issuance of import permits.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 30 - 
 
  Conditions of licensing  
14. Import permits are valid for up to two weeks following issuance. Validity of issued import permits 
are extendable. Extension r equests are made on TradeNet and processed by Singapore Customs.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of permit  or a portion of it.  
 
16. Permits  are non -transferable.  
 
17. Any other conditions (if applicable) may be advised on a case -by-case basis and will be listed in 
the import permit issued.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. As mentioned under Question/Paragraph 9. 
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
16  MOTORISED PERSONAL MOBILITY D EVICES AND POWER ASSISTED BICYCLES  
Outline of system  
1. From 28 June 2021, under the Small Motorised Vehicles (Safety) Act 2020, all importers of Power -
Assisted Bicycles ( "PABs") and motorised Personal Mobility Devices ( "PMDs ") are required to obtain 
approval from the Land Transport Authority ( "LTA") before importing such devices into Singapore.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The Import Control Regime ( "ICR") applies to PABs and motorised PMDs imported into Singapore 
under Harmonised System code s 87116092, 87116094 and 87116095.  
 
3. The ICR applies to all PABs and motorised PMDs imported into Singapore regardless of where 
such goods originate from.  
 
4. The ICR is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  It is an upstream measure  to 
stem the inflow of non -compliant PABs and non -compliant motorised PMDs into Singapore. It 
reinforces the government 's existing efforts to promote public path and fire safety in the use of 
active mobility devices.  
 
5. The ICR is legislatively maintained  under the Small Motorised Vehicles (Safety) Act 2020 and it is 
not possible to abolish the ICR without the relevant legislative approval(s). All importers of PABs 
and motorised PMDs shall obtain approval from the LTA before importing such devices into 
Singapore.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) To avoid delays, importers are advised to apply for an import permit before the goods arrive 
in Singapore. LTA typically requires up to 3 working days to process the import permit 
application submitted via TradeNet, after all necessary documents to support  the permit 
application have been submitted.  
 
TradeNet is Singapore 's National Single Window for trade declaration and all permit 
applications to import PABs and/or motorised PMDs submitted via TradeNet are routed to LTA 
for approval.  
 
(b)  While it is pos sible for an import permit to be granted immediately on request, any such urgent 
request is assessed on a case -by-case basis provided all necessary documents to support the 
permit application have been submitted to LTA.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 31 - 
 
  (c)  No limitations as to the perio d/time of the year during which applications for import permits 
may be submitted via TradeNet.  
 
(d)  Consideration of import permit application received via TradeNet for PABs and motorised PMDs 
imports, are effected by LTA only.  
 
8. No prescribed circumsta nces whereby an application for import permit is refused approval other 
than failure to meet the ordinary criteria, such as not providing the required supporting documents 
with the permit application. Importers are notified the reason(s) if their permit ap plication is being 
rejected.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. All persons or firms can apply for a permit to import PABs and motorised PMDs provided they 
have a trade related account maintained with Singapore Customs. LTA does not requir e importers 
to maintain a separate account or to pay a registration fee before they are allowed to apply for an 
import permit.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. LTA does not require importers to submit additional forms beyond what is required by Singapore 
Customs for importers to apply for import permits.  
 
In addition to other trade related information required/prescribed by Singapore Customs when 
applying for an import permit, information/documents requ ired by LTA as proof of import and for 
identification of goods to be imported includes:  
 
(a) Manufacturer 's sales receipt and invoice;  
(b) Packing list and ocean bill of lading (for sea shipments) or airway bill (for air shipments);  
(c) Certificate of conformity with EN15194:2017 (for PABs) or UL2272 certificate of compliance 
(for motorised PMDs), from accredited certification body; and  
(d) Vehicle specifications list including device model, weight, width, maximum speed and 
maximum continuous rated power of  the motor (for PABs).  
 
11. No additional documents (beyond what had been submitted in the import permit applications) 
are required upon actual importation.  
 
12. The import permit fee payable (per device) for compliant and non -compliant devices is $30 and 
$90 respectively. Such permit fee is payable only if the permit application is approved via TradeNet.  
 
13. LTA does not require importers to maintain any deposit or advance payment before applying for 
an import permit.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. LTA neit her prescribe s a period of validity for the approved permits nor determine if approved 
permits can be extended or to what extent.  
 
Validity period (including extension) of approved import permits is subject to rules/requirements 
prescribed by Singapore Cus toms.  
 
15. No penalty for non -utilization of approved import permits.  
 
16. Approved import permits are consignment specific and is not transferrable between importers.  
 
17. No other conditions are attached to the approved import permits other than the implicit 
requirement that the goods imported are as per that declared in the approved permits.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are required before importation once import permit 
application has been approved.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 32 - 
 
  19. LTA n either require nor prescribe foreign exchange related matters for PABs and motorised PMDs 
imported under the ICR.  
 
17  HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES AND HAZARDOUS WASTE  
Outline of system  
1. The Singapore National Environment Agency (NEA) regulates the importation of (a ) hazardous 
substances and (b) hazardous waste and other waste defined by the Basel Convention.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The products subject to NEA's import licensing procedures are listed in the table below.  
 
Products  Laws/Regulations  
Hazardous 
Substances  • Environment Protection and Management Act  
• Environmental Protection and Management (Hazardous Substances) Regulations  
Hazardous 
Waste  • Hazardous Waste (Control of Export, Import and Transit) Act  
• Hazardous Waste (Control of Export, Import and Transit) Regulations  
 
3. There is no restriction on the countries from which Singapore imports the hazardous substances 
and hazardous wastes except for obligations under the Multilateral Environmental Agreements to 
which Singapore is a Party. These are summarised below:  
 
(a) Trade ban with non -Parties to the Montreal Protocol and relevant amendments on ozone 
depleting substances and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)  listed in the Annexes of the Protocol;  
(b) Prior Informed Consent for importation of che micals listed in Annex III under the Rotterdam 
Convention;  
(c) Prohibition and restriction of chemicals (including products containing the chemicals) listed 
respectively in Annex A and B under the Stockholm Convention;   
(d) Prohibition of mercury containing produc ts listed in Annex A of the Minamata Convention and 
obligations on the trade in mercury under Article 3 of the Minamata Convention;  
(e) Prior Informed Consent (PIC) is to be sought by Parties to the Basel Convention for the 
transboundary movement of hazardous waste and other waste defined by the Convention. 
Under the PIC procedure,  the State of export shall notify, or shall require the generator or 
exporter to notify, in writing, through the channel of the competent authority of Singapore 
(i.e. NEA) o f any proposed trans -boundary movement of hazardous wastes or other wastes 
prior to the actual movement of them.  
 
4. The import licensing procedures for hazardous substances and hazardous waste are not intended 
to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  They are maintained for the purpose of discharging 
Singapore's obligations under multilateral environmental agreements (e.g. Basel Convention) or for 
health, safety, and environmental reasons.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under w hich the licensing procedures are 
maintained are listed under Question 2. All import licensing procedures are statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. While NEA administers the licensing system, the designation of 
chemicals and hazardous waste to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of any licensing 
system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) For import of hazardous substances , licence applications for importation should be made in 
advance of arrival  of the goods. Licences will be processed within 7 working days upon receipt 
of complete and accurate submission of all required documents. For certain Hazardous 
Substances, the Competent Authority of the exporting country is required to seek Prior 
Informe d Consent from the importing country 's Competent Authority defined under the 
Rotterdam Convention.   
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 33 - 
 
  For import of hazardous wastes , the Competent Authority of the exporting country is required 
to seek Prior Informed Consent from the Competent Authority of the importing and transit 
countries as defined under the Basel Convention. After obtaining PIC, licence applications for 
importation should be made in advance of arrival of the goods.  Licences will be processed 
within five working days upon receipt of com plete and accurate submission of all required 
documents.  
 
(b) Under certain circumstances, a licence may be granted immediately upon submission of 
application.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence a nd/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of a Hazardous Substances licence and Basel permit for hazardous waste 
application is effected by a single administrative body (i.e. NEA). The importer does not have 
to approach more than one administrative  body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets NEA's environmental pollution 
requirements. NEA will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions in Singapore are eligible to register with 
NEA and apply for licences. The applicant must be a professional or a senior management staff, who 
has the necessary knowledge of how to handle the hazardous wastes and  hazardous  substances 
safely. For hazardous substances , the person should also be one who has passed an examination for 
the module on "Manage Hazardous Substances" under the WSQ Specialist Diploma in Occupational 
Hygiene". The module covers technical knowledge on the safe handling of the hazardous substances 
and on the Environmental Protection and Management Act and its Regulations.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information i s required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority , product 
description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, produ ct brand/serial 
number/model/make and country of origin. Additional requirements in applications to import the 
following products include:  
 
(a) For hazardous substances , documents of approval from the Development Control and 
Licensing Division (DCLD) and a val id Hazardous Substances Licence or Permit from the 
Pollution Control Division 1 (PCD1) to show that the applicant has approved storage and 
handling facilities to handle hazardous substances safely; a layout plan to show areas for 
storing hazardous substanc es; and an emergency action plan to indicate how a chemical 
release from the storage area will be contained, detoxified and cleaned up.  
(b) For hazardous waste , any person who wishes to export, import or transit hazardous wastes 
shall obtain a permit from the Chemical Control and Management Department, NEA. NEA 
adopts the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure of the Basel Convention in granting any 
permit for the export, import or transit of hazardous wastes.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, most importers are re quired to make an Inward Declaration showing 
the correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required . 
 
12. Licensing fees are r equired for the following classes of licences:  
 
(a) For hazardous waste , 
 
• an annual Basel permit fee of S$370 for the export, import or transit of hazardous 
waste; or  
• a three-month Basel permit fee of S$165 for the export, import or transit of hazardous 
waste.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 34 - 
 
  (b) For hazardous substance : 
 
• an annual licence fee of S$525 for the import, export, sale, storage and transport of 
hazardous substances; and  
• an annual permit fee of S$160 for the purchase, use and storage of hazardous 
substances.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Please refer to s/n 12 for the length of validity of the classes of licences.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. Conditions are imposed on licences to ensure that measures are in place to protect public safety 
and health, as well as to minimise env ironmental pollution. These conditions include:  
 
• Ensuring hazardous substances and wastes are packaged, labelled and transported in 
accordance to relevant requirements and standards ; 
• Declaring every import of hazardous substances and waste using appropriat e product codes 
on TradeNet ; 
• Ensuring Prior Informed Consent have been given by all relevant Competent Authorities for 
the import/export of (i) hazardous waste and (ii) certain hazardous substances defined under 
the Multilateral Environment Agreements ; and  
• Submission of valid Banker 's guarantee to cover the costs of actions to remedy any problems 
which may arise during the transboundary movement and subsequent disposal (for hazardous 
waste only) . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
18  RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS AND IRRADIATING APPARATUS  
Outline of system  
1. The Singapore National Env ironment Agency (NEA) regulates the importation of radioactive 
materials, ionising radiation irradiating apparatus and non -ionising radiation irradiating apparatus.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The licensing system applies to radioactive materials , ionising radiation irradiating apparatus and 
non-ionising radiation irradiating apparatus.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the qua ntity or value of imports. They 
are maintained for health, safety, and environmental reasons.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Radiation Protection Act and its Regulations. 
All import licensing procedures are statutorily required and p ublished in government gazettes. While 
NEA administers the licensing system, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and 
the abolishment of any licensing system require legislative approval.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 35 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Application for an import licence should be submitted a week prior to the shipment arrival 
date. The licence processing time generally takes one-three working days if all required 
supporting documents are provided during application. A notification should be to NEA at least 
one month in advance, where possible,  made for radioactive materials under Category 1 -2 
(based on the International Atomic Energy Agency 's categorisation of radioactive sources)  
before the shipment of the radioactive source.  
 
(b) All re quired supporting documents must be furnished for the licence application to be 
expedited. However, at least one working day is needed to assess and process the licence.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for  licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence application is effected by a single administrative body (i.e. NEA) for 
most products. The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body 
except for irradiating app aratus classified as medical devices that are also subject to 
evaluation and approval by the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) before they can be 
imported.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets NEA's requirements. NEA will 
generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence. Applicants may appeal 
to the Minister in writing within 30 days of the communication of the rejection of the licence 
application.   
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions in Singapore are eligible to register with 
NEA and apply for licences. Importers (end -user individuals) who intend to use radioactive 
materials/ ionising radiation irradiating apparatus are required to demonstrate proof of competency 
by passing a proficiency test administered by the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Science Group.  
They can be registered as radiation workers to engage in radiation work, including the use and 
handl ing of those items. Importers (end -user individuals), who intend to use non -ionising irradiating 
apparatus (high power lasers), are also required to demonstrate proof of relevant 
training/qualifications by passing a proficiency test administered by the Rad iation Protection and 
Nuclear Science Group. Registered medical practitioners or registered dentists intending to use non -
ionising irradiating apparatus (high power lasers) in healthcare institutions are excluded from this 
requirement.  
 
Documentation and o ther requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority , product 
descri ption, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product brand/serial 
number/model/make and country of origin. Applicants are also required to furnish 
information/ documentations showing the relevant radiation licences and compliance with 
international standards.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, most importers are required to:  
 
(a) Make an Inward Declaration showing the correct description and quantities of each 
consignment made electronically through TradeNet;  
(b) Produce shipping documents such  as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill, packing list, and invoice;  
(c) Produce  the irradiating apparatus or radioactive material information,  radioactive source 
certificate  (where applicable) , shipper's declaration for dangerous goods and type of packaging 
for each consignment.  
 
For consignments of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs), each consignment must 
produce the Analysis Certificate from competent laboratories on the NORMs . G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 36 - 
 
  12. Licensing fees are required for the following classes of licences:  
 
• A licence  application  fee of S$40 per consignment  of import or export of controlled irradiating 
apparatus or radioactive materials ;  
• A licence application  fee of S$210 and annual pay ment/renewal application fee of $210 (from 
2nd year onwards)  to manufacture, possess for sale or deal in controlled  irradiating apparatus 
or radioactive materials;  
• A licence  application and annual payment (from 2nd year onwards)  fee of S$155  per ionising 
radiation irradiating apparatus not containing radioactive material in the licence, and $155 for 
at least one (a) irradiating apparatus containing radioactive material or (b) radioactive 
material in the licence, to keep or possess radioactive  materials and ionising irradiating 
apparatus other than for sale.   
• A licence application fee of S$155 and an annual payment fee of S$65 (from 2nd year onwards) 
per non -ionising radiation irradiating apparatus in the licence, to keep or possess each 
contro lled non -ionising  irradiating apparatus for use;  
• A registration application fee of $105 and an annual payment fee of $50 (from 2nd year 
onwards) to register as a radiation worker to engage in radiation work;  
• A licence application and annual payment (from  2nd year onwards) fee of S$155 to handle and 
transport radioactive materials; and  
• An annual licence application/renewal application fee of S$105 to use high -power laser 
apparatus.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Each import licence is valid for one month or until the shipment is cleared, whichever is shorter. 
Validity can be extended if the consignee can prove that the shipment was delayed.  
 
15. There is no pe nalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. Applications for licences to deal in radioactive materials and irradiating apparatus are subje ct to 
the following conditions:  
 
• For radioactive materials imported by the end -user company, the company must have  applied 
for or obtained  a possession licence that specifies the details  of radioactive materials that may 
be possessed , such as type, quantity and series number (for sealed sources) . Individuals in 
the company handling  the source must have a registration to engage in radiation work ; 
• The company handling the transport of radioactive materials must possess a licence to 
transport radioactiv e materials. The transporter must ensure that the vehicle transporting 
radioactive materials displays proper placard s showing the radiation sign and that it is not left 
unattended;  
• The disposal of unwanted, defective or decayed sources shall be the respon sibility of the 
licensee who shall follow an approved method of disposal (e.g. Return to the manufacturer);  
• For irradiating apparatus imported by the end -user company, the company must have applied 
for or obtained  a possession licence that specifies the details of the apparatus that may be 
possessed , such as model and serial number (excluding unsealed sources) . Individuals in the 
company operating  the appar atus must have a licence  (for non -ionising radiation irradiating 
apparatus) or be registered as a rad iation worker (for ionising radiation irradiating apparatus) 
to use these apparatus ;  
• Irradiating apparatus classified as medical devices are also subject to evaluation and approval 
by HSA before they can be imported for use in Singapore;  
• NEA retains the r ight to impose additional licensing conditions and other administrative 
controls.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 37 - 
 
  19. Not applicable.  
 
19  PLANTS AND PLANT MATERIALS, PRODUCTS OF LIVE ANIMALS AND BIRDS, AND 
ORNAMENTAL FISH  
Outline of system  
1. The National Parks Board (NParks) regulates the importation of plants and plant materials; 
products of live animals  and birds; and ornamental fish.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The products subject to NParks' import licensing scheme are listed the following table.  
 
Product  Laws/Regulations  
Plants and propagatable plant parts including genetically modified plants 
and cuttings, cut flowers, foliages, seeds, tubers, soil, bulbs, peat moss, 
wood bark and other potting media, organic fertilisers of plant origin and 
mushroom spawn. Live insects in cluding eggs, larvae and pupae, 
microorganisms of agricultural importance and biocontrol agents  Control of Plants (Plant 
Importation) Rules  
Endangered animals, species of wild fauna and flora (CITES live specimens, 
parts and products)  Endangered Species (Import 
and Export) Act  
Live animals (including ornamental fish), live birds, products of 
animals/birds, shell eggs for research purposes and veterinary 
biologics/vaccines  Animals and Birds Act  
Veterinary medicaments (containing controlled substances such as 
Schedule Poison under the Poisons Act or Controlled Drugs under the 
Misuse of Drugs Regulations)  Medicines Act   
 
3. The licensing requirements apply to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. Th e licensing requirements are maintained for the protection of plant life and health , and to 
discharge Singapore's obligations under international agreements, such as the Convention on 
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES ) and International Plant 
Protection Convention (IPPC).  
 
For animals , the Animals and Birds Act is an Act for preventing the introduction into, and the 
spreading within, Singapore of diseases of animals, birds or fish; for the control of the movement of 
animals, birds or fish into, within and from Singapore; for the prevention of cruelty to animals, birds 
or fish; for measures pertaining to the general welfare and improvement of animals, birds or fish in 
Singapore and for purposes incidental t hereto.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing procedures are 
maintained are listed under question 2. All import licensing procedures are statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. While NParks admi nisters the licensing system, the designation 
of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of any licensing system require 
legislative approval.   
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the  goods. Importer's licence (ornamental 
fish) will be processed upon receipt of the completed application form and required 
information/documents  as well as successful on -site inspection. There is no importer's licence 
required for import of plants & plant products . 
  
 After successfully obtaining a licence to import/export ornamental fish , each import 
consignment must be accompanied with a valid ornamental fish import permit. Similarly, 
applications must be submitted in advance of arrival of the consignment .  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 38 - 
 
  For animals and birds , a licence is required to import any animal, bird or veterinary biologics. 
As such it is necessary for a licence to be obtained prior to the arrivals in Singapore. 
The licence is valid 30 days from the date of issue.  
 
(b) The licence applicant would still have to submit the application with complete information and 
supporting documents prior to licence approval.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence applications are effected by a single administrative body (i.e. NParks). 
The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meet s the stipulated criteria. NParks 
will generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for licences. Applicants 
for the importation of the following products must meet additional criteria:  
 
(a) Only certain institutions or organisations such as zoos, museums and research institutions 
may apply for a licence to import certain CITES endangered species , mainly species listed in 
CITES Appendix I;  
(b) Only licenced  personnel with relevant qualification and experience may import veterinary 
biologics . A key criterion for the issuance of the licence to possess veterinary biologics is the 
suitability of the facil ities/premises; applicants dealing in ornamental fish import or export 
activities must have approved premises with facilities for holding, quarantining, and packing 
of ornamental fish;  
(c) Only institutions or importers who are granted approval after import ri sk assessment may 
apply for a licence to import microorganisms (plant pest), insects, organic fertilisers, biocontrol 
agents and plant pathogens  for research purposes. ; and  
(d) For animals , all persons may apply for the import licence. However, for commercial 
consignments, only the Animal and Veterinary Services (AVS) licensees e.g. pet shops, pet 
farms, research facilities may apply.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following information is required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, 
floorplan, GIRO application form, TradeNet activation form, and tenancy agreement, if applicable.  
 
For animals , supporti ng documents such as rabies vaccination records, serology test reports, 
quarantine reservation may be required.  
 
In addition, for applications of CITES permits to import CITES specimens (live, parts or products) , 
they would require the CITES export or re -export permits issued by the CITES Management Authority 
of the exporting or re -exporting country. Importation of plants and plant products  would also require 
phytosanitary certificate from the National Plant Prot ection Organization (NPPO) country of origin or 
export in accordance to Singapore's import requirements.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, most importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing 
the correct description and quantities of each consignm ent made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required. Additional 
requirements for the importation of certain products include:  
 
(a) For live animals/birds/ornamental fish, products of  live animals/birds and veterinary biologics , 
importers are required to show the import licence  issued by the NParks together with relevant 
documents (such as veterinary health certificate, QC report, vaccination records, serology test 
report) from the exp orting country. All ornamental fish and live animals imported must be 
healthy and free from any clinical signs of disease at the time of import. Sources may need to G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 39 - 
 
  be approved by the NParks prior to import application, depending on the type of product. 
Endangered species must be accompanied by CITES permits.  
(b) For plants and plant products , importers are required to produce the relevant documents (such 
as phytosanitary certificate, CITES permit for endangered plant species, and post entry 
inspection form). In addition, a letter of approval for import issued by NParks is also required 
for the import of microorganisms (plant pest), insects, organic fertilisers, and plant pathogens 
for research purposes.   
 
12. Licensing fees are required for the following classes of licences:  
 
(a) Import Permits (for actual imports) : 
 
• A permit fee of S$11 per consignment of plants and plant products. Other fees for and 
incidental to any inspection or examination activities are also specified under the Control 
of Plant s (Plant Importation) Rules.  
• A permit fee of S$3.50 per consignment applies for ornamental fish.  
• A permit fee of S$50 per permit for pet animals/birds; and S$22 per permit for 
veterinary biologics.  
• A permit fee of S$12 per scheduled CITES endangered specie s or parts/derivatives, 
subject to a minimum amount of S$60 per consignment, depending on the species.  
Each permit is valid for three months  and may be extended for another three months.  
• A permit fee of $50 (personal) and $87 (commercial) per consignment o f live animals.  
• A permit fee of $62 per consignment of live birds.  
 
(b) Dealers' licences : 
 
• An annual licence  fee of S$350 for ornamental fish.  
• An annual  licence fee of S$45 for the licence to possess veterinary biologics.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance  payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. For the import of animals, the licence is valid 30 days from the date of issue. The licence could 
be extended to a maximum of 90 days from the date of issue by applying through the online system.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority.  
 
17. For the import of plants and plant products , there is no importer's licence required,  but NParks 
would conduct post -entry inspection on the consignment. Importer is required to comply with the 
conditions stipulated (e.g. transport and storage condition ) in the approval letter for consignments 
that require import risk analysis.  
 
For the import of animals and birds , all consignments are subjected to post -arrival inspections.  
Importers are required to comply with the all the conditions and submit all the original supporting 
documents as stipulated on the import licence.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. For the import of plants and plant products , an importer's licence is not required. Institutions or 
importers are required to submit relevant documents (e .g. production process, list of species, list of 
ingredients,  etc.) prior to importation. These documents would be required by NParks to conduct 
import risk analysis on the consignment such as microorganisms (plant pest), insects, organic 
fertilisers, bioc ontrol agents and plant pathogens for research purposes. The result of risk analysis 
would determine if the importation would be allowed.  
 
For the import of animals for commercial purposes , only AVS licensees are allowed to import (e.g. 
pet shops, pet far ms, research facilities).  
 
19. Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 40 - 
 
  20  PETROLEUM AND FLAMMABLE MATERIALS  
Outline of system  
1. The import of petroleum and flammable materials is regulated by Singapore Civil Defence Force 
(SCDF). Any person who is to import any scheduled products a bove the exemption quantities is 
required to obtain an import licence from SCDF.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The list of scheduled petroleum and flammable materials is divided into the following three groups:  
 
(a) Petroleum – SCDF only regulates dies el, liquefied petroleum gas, and any petroleum products 
having a flashpoint of 60oC and below.  
(b) Flammable materials – there are 366 groups of chemicals in the current list which is accessible 
on SCDF's website.  
(c) Mixtures that contain component of petroleum and/or flammable materials and have a 
flashpoint of 60°C and below.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries . 
 
4. The import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. They 
are maintained for public safety reasons.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Fire Safety Act, and Fire Safety (Petroleum 
and Flammable Materials) Regulations. All import licensi ng procedures are statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing system is undertaken 
by SCDF, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of the 
licensing system requir e legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods. The import licence will be 
approved and sent to the applicant via email after the payment has been deducted successfully 
within one working day. The import licence number and importer information will be updated 
in TradeNet.  
 
(b) Request for immediate granting of licence will be considered on a case -by-case basis.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which a pplications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence applications is effected by a single administrative body. The importer 
does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licen ce is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. SCDF will 
generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence.  The applicant is allowed 
to submit a new application online after the applicant has met the stipulated criter ia. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply under the licensing 
system.   
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The applicant is required to declare the following for the import licence:  
 
• EI (Entity Identifier) number and information.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 41 - 
 
  • Type and quantities of petroleum and flammable materials.  
 
The applicant will proceed to make payment after submitting the application. The import lic ence will 
be approved and sent to the applicant via email after the payment has been deducted successfully. 
The import licence number and importer information will be updated in TradeNet.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, most importers are required to make an  Inward Declaration showing 
the correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required . 
 
12. SCDF charges a licensing fee of S$70.   
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Importers can apply for an import licence duration that lasts up to 3 years.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from the relevant authority . 
 
17. Applicants of the import licence are required to have a valid Petroleum & Flammable Materials 
(P&FM) Storage Licence, which licenses premises to store the imported flammable products. In 
addition, an import licence granted is subject to the provisio ns of Fire Safety Act and Fire Safety 
(P&FM) Regulations, including the following conditions:  
 
• Importer must ensure that the imported goods are stored in P&FM -licenced  premises.  
• Importer must ensure that the imported goods shall not cause the fire safety r equirements of 
the licenced  storage premises to be compromised in any manner such as exceeding the 
licenced  storage quantity or not in accordance to approved storage licence.  
• Importers using third party licenced  storage premises must ensure that the necessary 
authorization must be obtained from the licenced  storage premises. The use of unauthorized 
storage licences will render the licence holder/company liable for prosecution.  
• Importer must ensure that the import ed goods are transported by a P&FM -licenced  vehicle.  
• Flammable materials in packaging such as drums, carboys etc. are to be kept in a sheltered 
store with adequate security, ventilation,  and control facilities to contain spillage or leakage.  
• For the import  of flammable material controlled by SCDF, you are to ensure that your company 
or your declaring agent declares the appropriate HS codes & product codes when submitting 
the inward/outward permit applications. Misuse of the HS codes & product code will rend er 
the licence holder/company liable to prosecution.  
• Import of LPG and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in cylinder is not allowed apart from the 
exemption quantity.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from im port licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
21  FOOD AND FOOD APPLIANCES  
Outline of system  
1. Traders who intend to import food and food appliances into Singapore are required to meet the 
import co nditions and licensing requirements of the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The products subject to SFA 's licensing schemes are listed in the table below.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
- 42 - 
 
  Product  Laws/Regulations  
Meat and meat products  Wholesome Meat and Fish Act  
Fish and fish products  Wholesome Meat and Fish Act  
Fresh fruits and vegetables   Control of Plants Act  
Processed food  and food appliances  Sale of Food Act  
Animal feed  Animals and Birds Act  
Livestock and Animal Products  Animals and Birds Act  
 
3. The licensing requirements apply to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. SFA's import licensing procedures are maintained for food safety , public and animal health reasons 
and are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing procedures are 
maintained are listed under question 2. All import licensing procedures are statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. While SFA administers the licensing system, the designation of 
products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of any licensing system require legislative 
approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Applications should be made in advance of arrival of the goods. The importer 's licence  
application will be processed within 1 working day upon receipt of the completed application 
form and required information/documents. SFA provides for same -day processing for some  
products at an additional fee equal to the licence cost.  
 
(b) A licence can be granted on the same working day upon submission of the complete application 
form and supporting documents.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of licence application is effected by a single administrative body  (i.e. SFA). The 
importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application fo r an import licence is granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. SFA will generally 
provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue a licence. Applicant may contact SFA to 
appeal against the rejection of a licence  application . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply for 
licences /registration with SFA . 
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The following infor mation is required in applications for import licences: particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority, and 
statement of Medisave contribution (for self -employed persons only). For table eggs, a Business 
Continuity Plan is required in addition to the above.   
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNe t. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice are also required. Additional 
requirements for the importation of certain products include:  
 
• For meat and meat products , imports must be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate  
issued by the approved sources in the exporting country.  
• For live poultry , imports must be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate issued by the 
approved sources in the exporting country.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  • For livestock , imports must be accompanied by a master 's/cap tain's declaration and a 
veterinary health certificate issued by the approved sources in the exporting country.  
• For selected fish or fish products , additional health certificate and quarantine requirements 
apply.  
• For selected processed food products , additional supporting documents (e.g., health 
certificates or laboratory analytical reports) to certify the safety of the products are required.  
• For table eggs and egg products , imports must be accompanied by a veterinary health 
certificate issued by the approved sources in the exporting country, the invoice and the 
packing list.  
• For animal feed meant for food -producing animals , imports must be accompanied by the bill 
of lading/airway bill, invoice, packing list, ingredient list/p roduct composition, product 
specifications/data sheet, and manufacturer 's declaration (stating that the product does not 
contain meat/meat products and is meant for animal consumption only).  
 
In addition, some types of food imports require inspection upon entering the country. These include 
all food consignments, live poultry and livestock  imports. The requirement for an inspection will be 
indicated on the Cargo Clearance Permit (CCP) issued. The inspection may involve a collection of 
samples by SFA for lab oratory analysis. In some cases, consignments may also be placed on "hold 
and test ", i.e. the consignment cannot be sold or distributed until the laboratory results have been 
released and the sample found compliant with Singapore food laws.  
 
12. SFA's licensing/registration fees for food importers are provided in the table below.  
 
Type of Food to be imported  Licence/Registration Name  Fees  
Meat and fish   Licence for Import/Export/Transshipment of Meat 
and Fish Products  S$84 per annum  
Fresh fruit and vegetables  Licence for Import/Transshipment of Fresh Fruits 
and Vegetables  S$378 per annum  
Fresh eggs  Licence to Import Table Eggs  Free 
Processed eggs,  processed food, 
and food appliances  Registration to Import Processed Food Products and 
Food Appliances  Free 
Animal feed  Registration to Import Animal Feed  Free 
 
SFA's licensing/registration fees for importers of food -producing animals and animal feed are 
provided in the table below.  
 
Type of Food to be imported  Licence/Registration Name  Fees  
Sheep and Goats  Licence to Import/Export/Transship Animals, Birds, 
Eggs and Biologics  S$87 per 
consignment  
Day-old-chicks  Licence to Import/Export/Transship  Animals, Birds, 
Eggs and Biologics  S$62 per 
consignment  
Sheep and Goat  Licence to Import Sheep and Goat  Free 
Broiler Chickens and Broiler 
Ducks  Licence to Import Poultry  
 Free 
Animal feed  Registration to Import Animal Feed  Free 
Live frog  Registration to Import Live Frogs for Consumption  Free 
 
The CCP fees for the import of various types of food are provided in the table below.  
 
Type of Food  Fees  
Meat (chille d, frozen or processed)  S$4.60 per 100 kg or part thereof  
Meat (canned)  S$77 per consignment  
Fish S$3 per consignment  
Fresh fruits and vegetables  S$3 per consignment  
Fresh eggs  S$62 per consignment  
Processed eggs  (salted/preserved eggs)  S$62 per consignment  
Other processed egg products  S$22 per consignment  
Live poultry  S$62 per consignment  
Live pigs  S$87 per consignment  
Animal feed for food producing animals (livestock or aquaculture)  S$22 per consignment  
Processed food  Not applicable  
Food appliances  Not applicable  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Conditions of licensing  
14. Licences are valid for a year, unless sooner revoked or suspended. Licences may be renewed 
upon its expiry but cannot be extended.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non-utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable without the approval in writing from SFA. 
 
17. Traders who wish to import food into Singapore must ensure that their products meet SFA 's 
import conditions, including importing from approved sources, obtaining health certificates, 
providing required food labels, etc. Such information can be found on SFA 's website. Additional 
conditions for the following products are listed below:  
 
• To import sheep/goat , importers are required to obtain a Special Slaughter Permit from SFA 
for each consignment.  
• To import fresh table eggs , importers must have their egg storage premises inspected and 
approved by SFA to meet SFA 's requirements on hygiene and sanitation, locati on (i.e. away 
from heavy industries), storage conditions, etc. Importers are also required to submit a 
Business Continuity Plan (BCP) for approval prior to licence application and/or renewal. This 
BCP would detail preventive strategies adopted by the impor ter to mitigate the impact of 
supply disruptions.  
 
Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
22  ARMS , EXPLOSIVES AND EXPLOSIVES PRECURSORS  
Outline of system  
1. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) regulates the import of arms, explosives and explosives 
precursors, and other controlled items such as replica guns/explosives, bulletproof vest, handcuffs, 
etc. 
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The products subject to SPF 's import licensing scheme are listed the following table.  
 
Product  Laws/Regulations  
"Arms" are defined as:  
 
(a) Firearms, air -guns, air -pistols, stun guns, electronic dart guns, 
automatic guns, automatic pistols, guns or any other kind of gun from 
which any shot, bullet or other missiles can be discharged or noxious 
fumes or noxious substance can be emitted, and any  component part 
of any such arms;  
(b) bayonets, swords, daggers, spears and spearheads; and  
(c) An arrow with (a) a broadhead tip; (b) a field arrow tip; (c) a blunt 
arrow tip; (d) a grabbing arrow tip; (e) a fishing arrow tip;  
(d) Heavy Bows such as (a) an arbalest ; (b) a device (commonly called a 
crossbow) consisting of a bow fitted transversely on a stock that has a 
groove or barrel, designed to direct an arrow or a bolt; (c) a bow with 
a draw weight of more than 27.215 kilograms;  
(e) such weapon , accessory, or other article or thing, as the Minister may, 
by notification in the Gazette , specify to be arms for the purposes of 
this Act or any part thereof . Arms and Explosives Act, 
1913 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Product  Laws/Regulations  
"Explosives" are defined as:  
 
(a) Gunpowder, nitro -glycerine, dynamite, gun-cotton, blasting powder, 
fulminate of mercury or of other metals, coloured fires and every other 
substance, whether similar to those abovementioned or not, used or 
manufactured with a view to produce a practical effect by explosion or 
a pyrotechnic eff ect; 
(b) includes fog signals, fireworks, fuses, rockets, percussion -caps, 
detonators, cartridges and ammunition of all descriptions, and every 
adaptation of preparation of an explosive as above defined; and  
(c) includes sand crackers, and any substance declared to be deemed an 
explosive by notification under section 10(1)(a) of the Arms and 
Explosives Act.  
 
The definition of "explosive precursors" are defined as any substance specified 
in the Second Schedule of the Arms and Explosives Act.   
Other controlled items include:  
 
(a) Articles  of clothing intended as protection against attack, including 
bullet -proof vest  
(b) Helmets  intended as protection in military combat  
(c) Toy or replica guns  
(d) Toy or replica explosives, grenades, ammunitions or improvised 
explosive  devices (IED)  
(e) Handcuffs   Regulation of Imports and 
Exports Regulations  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. SPF's import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. 
They are maintained for public safety and security reasons.  
 
5. The laws, regulations and/or administrative orders under which the licensing procedures are 
maintained are listed in Question 2. All import licensing procedures a re statutorily required and 
published in government gazettes. While the administration of the licensing system is undertaken 
by SPF, the designation of products to be subjected to licensing and the abolishment of the licensing 
system require legislative ap proval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) All permit applications received will be processed on first come, first serve basis. Importers of 
arms, explosives and explosive precursors are encouraged to submit their declarations early 
(at least five working days before the import) to avoid delay in t he permit approval.  
 
(b) A licence cannot be granted immediately on request. Any application for an import licence has 
to be duly assessed before a decision is taken approve or reject the application by the 
Licensing Officer.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for licence and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d)  Consideration of licence application  under the Arms and Explosives Act  is effected by a single 
administrative body, i.e. SPF. The  importer doe s not have to approach more than one 
administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an import licence is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria  and the 
applicant is a fit and proper person to hold the licence . SPF will generally provide the reaso n(s) in 
the event of a refusal to issue a licence. Under Sec. 21H of the Arms and Explosives Act, any person 
who is dissatisfied with any refusal by the Licensing Officer to issue him a licence under this Act may 
within 14 days of the decision appeal in wr iting to the Minister whose decision shall be final and 
conclusive.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply under the licensing 
system.  
 
For the import of arms or explosives or explosive precursors , the applicant must hold a dealer 's 
licence before he can apply for an import licence. The following criteria for dealer 's licence applies:  
 
• Criteria for applicant, who is an individual, directors/partners and staff:  
 
(a) The applicant must be:  
(i) A Singaporean or Permanent Resident of Singapore;  
(ii) At least 21 years old at the time of application;  
(iii) Must be the following business stakeholders as registered with the Accounting 
and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA):  
▪ A Director - For companies  
▪ A Partner - For Partnerships, Limited Partnerships (LP) and Limited 
Liability Partnerships (LLP)  
▪ The Sole Proprietor - For Sole Proprietorships  
 
(b) The applicant, directors/partners and staff who will be directly involved in the handl ing 
of arms or explosives must fulfil the following criteria:  
(i) Be a "fit and proper person " – the criteria and requirements for a person to be 
considered fit and proper are (but not limited to) whether the person has 
honesty, integrity, a good reputation, c ompetence and capability ; and  
(ii) Have the relevant experience and knowledge in the handling of arms or 
explosives.   
 
• In addition,  the criteria for company:  
 
(a) The company must be registered with the Registry of Companies and Businesses.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The applicant is required to submit the following documents to SPF following the submission of 
an application for an import licence for arms or explosives or explosive precursors : 
 
(a) A catalogue or brochure or Safety Data Sheet showing the type of arms or ex plosives or 
explosive precursors to be imported;  
(b) The Purchase Order or End User Certificate (EUC) from the government department that is 
making the purchase;  
(c) Export Licence/approval from the country of origin;  
(d) Bill of Lading or Airway Bill; and  
(e) Invoice fro m the supplier.  
 
For the application for dealer 's licence , the following documents are required:  
 
(a) A catalogue or brochure showing the type of arms or explosives that he intends to deal 
in/manufacture/repair; and  
(b) Documentary proof showing his experience in handling arms or explosives.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through the Singapore 
Customs ' TradeNet  System . Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill and invoice 
are also required. For arms, explosives and explosive precursors , imported goods may have to be 
produced for further inspection at the Police Licensing & Regulatory Depa rtment immediately after 
customs clearance.  
 
12. SPF charges a licence fee of S$22 per consignment for import of arms, explosives and explosive 
precursors; and a maximum duration of two-year dealer 's licence fee ranging from S$285 - S$1,850 
for arms, explo sives and explosive precursors.  G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import Licences are valid for 30 days. The validity of a licence cannot be extended. A new impor t 
licence can be applied by the importer.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17. The following conditions are attached to the issuance of a licence:  
 
(a) For the import of arms o r explosives , the licence is issued subject to all the provisions of the 
Arms and Explosives Act  1913 and of the Rules made thereunder. For transportation of 
firearms and explosives, armed escort by Auxiliary Police Officers will be required.  
(b) For the impor t of explosive precursors , it shall be for the supply to licenced  companies only. 
Upon import , all consignment shall be immediately delivered to approved storage facilities. 
The licensee shall ensure that the container security seal is intact upon discharge from the 
vessel/aircraft. The licensee shall also ensure that the transportation of explosive precursors 
meets all of SPF 's conditions  and the Singapore Civil Defence Force 's requirements on Road 
Transportation of Hazardous Materials (HazMat).  
(c) For dealer 's licence for arms or explosives , the licensee is required to maintain stock 
books/records that meets SPF 's requirements. The licensee is also required to make prior 
notification to SPF of any change of address, employment of new employees and ces sation of 
employment.  
 
Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
23  AMUSEMENT GAMING MACHINES  
Outline of system  
1. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) regulates the import of amusement gaming machines. SPF 's 
approval to import and operate such machines is required before an import permit can issued for 
their entry into Singapore.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. The import licensing scheme covers amusement machines, coin or disc operated, including pin -
tables, shooting galleries and cinematography machines.  
 
3. The licensing system applies to products originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The import licensing procedures are not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. They 
are maintained for public safety reasons.  
 
5. The licensing procedures are maintained under the Regulation of Imports and Exports Re gulations. 
All import licensing procedures are statutorily required and published in government gazettes. While 
the administration of the licensing system is undertaken by SPF, the designation of products to be 
subjected to licensing and the abolishment of  the licensing system require legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/SGP/19  
 
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  7.(a) All applications received will be processed on first come, first serve basis. Importers are 
required to submit their applications for approval at least six weeks befo re the arrival of the 
goods in Singapore.  
 
(b) An approval cannot be granted immediately on request. Any application has to be duly 
assessed by SPF before it undertakes the decision to approve or reject the application.  
 
(c) There are no limitations on the period of the year during which applications for approval and/or 
importation may be made.  
 
(d) Consideration of approval application is effected by a single administrative body, i.e. SPF. 
The importer does not have to approach more than one administrative body.  
 
8. An application for an approval is usually granted if it meets the stipulated criteria. SPF will 
generally provide the reason(s) in the event of a refusal to issue an approval.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence  
9. Generally, all persons, registered firms and institutions are eligible to apply under the licensing 
system.  
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Application for SPF's approval  must be supported with as much information about the item as 
possible, e.g. brochures (in English) with pictures of game machines, description of the objectives 
and modes of play.  
 
For applications for import permits , the following information is required : particulars of importer, 
company registration certificate issued by the Singapore Registry of Companies and Businesses, 
product description, product quantity, mode of transport, port of shipment/transport, product 
brand/serial number/model/make and count ry of origin.  
 
11. Upon actual importation, importers are required to make an Inward Declaration showing the 
correct description and quantities of each consignment made electronically through TradeNet. 
Shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading/Airway B ill and invoice are also required.  
 
12. SPF does not charge any licensing or administrative fees for the importation of amusement 
machines.  
 
13. There are no deposit or advance payment requirements associated with the issuance of licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import permit ceases to be valid once the importation of the concerned amusement gaming 
machine is effected. The validity of the permit may be extended by renewal.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilisation of licence or a portion of it.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17. Not applicable.  
 
Other procedural requirement s 
18. There are no other administrative procedures, apart from import licensing and similar 
administrative procedures, required prior to importation.   
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
__________