According to updated information from the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore, Vietnamese exporters and importers should take note of several new trade policies and regulatory changes recently issued or under consultation by the Singaporean authorities.
1. Circular on Revised Export Procedures for Processed Meat and Egg Products from Overseas Accredited Establishments
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The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has revised export procedures for processed meat and egg products from overseas accredited processing facilities.
The changes took effect on December 1, 2024.
Key updates include:
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SFA’s approval now shifts from a product-based to a category-based approach, considering (i) the physical form of goods and (ii) the type of processed product.
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Foreign competent authorities no longer need to apply for additional export approvals for other processed meat and egg products from already approved establishments, provided the products have the same form and category as previously approved.
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Exported goods must clearly state their form (e.g., heat-treated or non-heat-treated).
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The definition of poultry is expanded to include chicken, turkey, duck, goose, quail, pigeon, guinea fowl, and pheasant.
Although Vietnam is not yet authorized to export these products to Singapore, SFA is considering recognizing Vietnamese processing facilities in the near future.
Full details: Trade Circular on Revised Procedures for Export of Additional Processed Meat and Egg Products
2. Circular on Revised Licensing Fees for Import of Frozen, Chilled, and Processed Meat
Effective November 18, 2024, the SFA implemented a new licensing fee of SGD 300 per import permit for frozen, chilled, and processed meat products.
(The previous fee was SGD 4.6 per 100 kg or part thereof.)
While Vietnam is still not yet permitted to export these product groups to Singapore, authorities are reviewing the possibility of import approvals from Vietnam in the future.
Full details: Trade Circular on Revision to the Fee for Permit to Import Frozen, Chilled and Processed Meat Products
3. Public Consultation on the Regulation of Imports and Exports (Amendment) Bill
From December 9, 2024, to February 7, 2025, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Singapore Customsconducted a public consultation on the proposed Regulation of Imports and Exports (Amendment) Bill.
The bill aims to establish a regulatory framework for “trade information certificates” related to the import, export, transshipment, and manufacture of goods in Singapore. It also enhances customs enforcement and oversight.
Key Proposed Changes:
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Establishment of a framework for the licensing and monitoring of authorized trade certification bodies.
Customs will have authority to impose, amend, suspend, or revoke such licenses and must issue written noticesbefore enforcement actions. -
New offenses for deliberately issuing trade information certificates containing false, misleading, or fraudulent details — protecting Singapore’s trade integrity and preventing customs duty evasion.
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Recordkeeping requirements for exporters and manufacturers issuing preferential certificates of origin (COs).
Companies must retain documentation such as invoices, packing lists, delivery receipts, and bills of lading for the period specified in relevant agreements. -
Data protection and confidentiality provisions covering trade information submissions, with penalties aligned with existing customs legislation.
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Appeal mechanism allowing firms to contest Customs’ decisions through the Minister for Trade and Industry or delegated authorities.
Full details: Public Consultation on the Regulation of Imports and Exports (Amendment) Bill
Trade Office Recommendation
The Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore strongly advises Vietnamese industry associations, export-import enterprises, and processing companies to thoroughly review Singapore’s regulatory framework before conducting any trade activities to avoid penalties or trade disruptions due to non-compliance.