Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Most Popular Questions Expand Collapse
Importing Other Category of Goods Answer In general, all goods imported into Singapore are subject to the payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) levied at prevailing rate on the goods' Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) value. This is inclusive of all other charges, costs and expenses incidental to the sale and delivery of the goods into Singapore. Goods imported on a temporary basis for the purpose of exhibitions, repairs or other approved purposes, may be granted GST relief under the Temporary Import Scheme (TIS) subject to the conditions listed under the TIS.
Do I need to pay duty and GST for importation of my goods? Answer What is the category of goods to be imported? Liquor Cigarettes and Tobacco Products Motor Vehicles Petroleum Products and Biodiesel Blends Others
What is the contact number of the Customs Contact Centre? Answer Chat with us now! Alternatively, you may leave us a call-back request at +65 6355 2000. Our operating hours are from 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday) and 8am to 12pm (Saturday). We are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. Our peak hours are 10am to 12pm, and 3pm to 5pm. You are encouraged to engage with us via live-chat. Otherwise, you may also leave a call-back request and our agents will aim to get back to you within 20 minutes. Alternatively, you may submit your query via our online feedback form here.
How can I find out if my goods are controlled or regulated for import or export? Answer To determine if your goods are controlled in Singapore, you can obtain the 8-digit HS code for the goods from the HS/CA Product Code search engine to identify the Competent Authority(ies) (CAs) for the particular HS code. If your goods are controlled, you are advised to check directly with the relevant CA on their licensing requirements prior to the importation or exportation of your goods. Please note that normal import and export procedures and documentation requirements will apply even if your HS code does not fall under any CA's purview.
Goods were brought into Singapore under a temporary import permit. Part of the goods was sold to the customer. What permit should I apply for the goods sold? Answer In the event that the goods imported under the Temporary Import Scheme (TIS) are sold, transferred or disposed of locally, the importer will be required to pay duty and/or GST for any temporarily imported goods listed in the In-Non-Payment (TCR) permit. The importer is required to obtain a payment permit to account for the importation and duty and/or GST payment. When obtaining a payment permit, the previous temporary import permit must be declared in the "Previous Permit Number" field.