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A comprehensive guide to exporting food products to Europe

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jars of singapore food products for export to europe

Singapore's food industry is renowned for its quality and diversity, presenting ample opportunities for food export to the lucrative European market. However, navigating the complexities of international shipping and complying with stringent European regulations can be a daunting task.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip Singaporean food exporters with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully navigate the challenges and capitalise on the vast potential of the European market.

From what Singapore exports to Europe to how to send frozen food overseas, the insights here can help you streamline your food logistics. In this way, you can ensure the safe and efficient shipping of perishable and temperature-sensitive products to European consumers.

What food and food products does Singapore export to the EU?

In 2022, Singapore's total exports to the European Union (EU) amounted to €20.8 billion, making it the EU’s 2nd largest merchandise trade partner that year. That same year, the EU imported €114 million worth of food and live animals, €31 million worth of animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes, and €14 million worth of beverages and tobacco from Singapore.

Under the European Union – Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA), which was entered into in 2019, locally-made Asian food products receive enhanced market access and can now enter the EU tariff-free under flexible Rules of Origin. Unnecessary technical barriers to trade (TBT) within the meat and meat products industry were also removed to encourage easier trade in the sector.

While the majority of Singapore’s exports to the EU primarily focus on electronics, machinery, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, there is notable potential for growth in the food sector for businesses looking to capitalise on new, upcoming opportunities.

The global food export challenge

However, exporting food products across borders is inherently complex. Varying regulations, safety standards, and logistical hurdles create a challenging landscape for businesses.

Exporting to Europe, in particular, demands meticulous attention to detail due to its stringent regulations and high consumer expectations. The EU has a robust regulatory framework in place to ensure the safety and quality of food products entering its market. Non-compliance can result in shipment delays, additional costs, or even rejection at the border, impacting your business's reputation and bottom line.

With careful planning and the right partnerships, Singaporean businesses can successfully tap into this vast market to offer EU consumers high-quality and unique food items that cater to cosmopolitan European tastes and preferences. 

Understanding European food import regulations

To successfully export food to Europe, it's imperative to understand and comply with the intricate web of regulations governing food imports.

Key regulatory bodies

The European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and various national agencies play a crucial role in establishing and enforcing food safety standards. The European Commission sets overall policies and regulations, while the EFSA provides scientific advice and risk assessments. National agencies within each EU member state, which may include Health or Agriculture Ministries, implement and enforce these regulations at the local level.

Core regulations

European food import regulations cover a wide array of aspects, including hygiene certifications, listing ingredients and allergens, displaying nutritional information, and disclosing food additives or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Customs authorities may request for required certificates, authorisations, and import or export licences at any point, with failure to produce them potentially leading to customs delays or rejections.

Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures

Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures are in place to prevent the spread of pests or diseases and ensure the safety of European consumers, agriculture, and animals:

  • Product of Animal Origin (POAO): Meat, dairy, and other products of animal origin are subject to strict veterinary controls. For instance, chicken or poultry products may require verification related to bird flu or animal welfare.
  • Plant-based products: Plant-based products may require phytosanitary certificates and face potential restrictions depending on their origin and nature.

Exporters should take note of specific regulations such as these and ensure compliance with specific import requirements, including veterinary inspections, health certificates, and traceability documentation.

Pre-export preparation

Meticulous preparation is key to ensure a seamless export process when shipping your food products from Singapore to Europe:

  • Product compliance: Conduct a thorough assessment of all products to guarantee they meet all EU standards. This includes verifying ingredients, labelling, packaging, and any specific requirements for your product category. Pay close attention to the use of food additives and ensure they are approved for use in the EU.
  • Required documentation: Prepare all necessary certificates, licences, and declarations, such as health certificates, certificates of origin, and import declarations. Ensure the documentation is accurate, complete, and up-to-date.

Logistics and customs during the export process to Europe

Shipping method

Select the most appropriate shipping method based on the product's nature, shelf life, and budget. DHL Express offers a range of temperature-controlled air freight and cold chain shipping solutions to meet your specific needs while remaining fast, efficient, and cost-effective.

Customs procedures

Familiarise yourself with European customs procedures, including import declarations, duties, and taxes, as follows:

  • Goods may be stopped and controlled at the first point of entry into Europe
  • All supporting documents must be submitted to the relevant Regulatory Authorities prior to customs clearance
  • Approval from the relevant Regulatory Authorities is necessary for customs clearance to proceed
  • Goods may be required to transit to another location under bond before customs clearance
  • Goods may need to undergo clearance under 3rd party brokers, per customs regulations (e.g. sanitary checks and authorisation for food products, veterinary or CITES authorisation for products of animal origin, phytosanitary checks and authorisation for plants or plant products)

Accurate and complete documentation is vital to avoid delays and additional costs. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your products, including their classification, origin, and value. Missing, incorrect, or inaccurate documentation can lead to significant delays and additional costs, and the shipment may even be destroyed or returned to origin.

Dealing with potential issues or delays in the food export process

Despite careful preparation, unforeseen issues may arise during the export process. It's crucial to be aware of these potential challenges and have strategies in place to address them:

  • Delays and inspections: Customs inspections and other factors can cause delays in the food export process. Minimise these by ensuring accurate documentation, proper labelling, and partnering with a reliable logistics provider like DHL Express. DHL's expertise in customs clearance and its proactive shipment monitoring can help expedite the process and reduce the risk of delays.
  • Rejected shipments: Shipments may be rejected due to non-compliance with regulations, inadequate documentation, or other reasons. Understanding the potential reasons for rejection and having a contingency plan in place is crucial. This may involve re-exporting the goods, destroying them, or addressing the non-compliance issue and re-submitting the shipment.
  • Additional costs: Anticipate potential fees from authorities and logistics providers, such as customs duties, taxes, and inspection fees. Factor these into your pricing strategy to avoid unexpected expenses. DHL Express can provide transparency on potential costs and help you optimise your shipping strategy to minimise expenses.

Consider engaging a logistics partner with customs expertise, such as DHL Express, to navigate the complexities of customs clearance. DHL Express can assist businesses with documentation, classification, and communication with customs in Europe, streamlining the import and compliance process to minimise potential delays.

Engage DHL Express for efficient, expert food export logistics into Europe

worker handling cold chain shipping logistics for food exports

Exporting food products to Europe presents both challenges and opportunities for Singaporean businesses. By partnering with a reliable logistics provider like DHL Express, you can successfully navigate the complexities of international shipping and tap into the vast potential of the European market.

As a trusted partner for food exporters worldwide, DHL Express understands the unique challenges of shipping perishables and offers tailored solutions, including temperature-controlled shipping and cold chain delivery logistics. Our team of experts can advise you on the best packaging and shipping methods to ensure your products maintain their quality and freshness throughout their journey, and arrive in optimal condition.

Our extensive courier network and strong presence in Europe likewise guarantees efficient and reliable delivery to your customers, with dedicated facilities and personnel to handle, transport, and store food shipments. While our experienced customs brokers in Singapore can navigate the complexities of European customs procedures, ensuring smooth and hassle-free clearance.

Open a DHL Express business account today to learn how we can support your growth in Europe.