Import from Switzerland to Singapore: Shipping strategies

Switzerland and Singapore have cultivated a strong and growing trade relationship, particularly since the entry into force of the free trade agreement between Singapore and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 2003. This agreement marked a significant milestone as it was the first free trade agreement between EFTA and an Asian country, paving the way for substantial growth in trade between the two nations. In 2022, Switzerland exported goods worth 9.9 billion Swiss francs (S$15.2 billion) to Singapore, underscoring the importance of this bilateral trade relationship.

Given the robust trade dynamics, this guide aims to provide effective strategies for ensuring a smooth shipping process between Switzerland and Singapore, highlighting key considerations for customs clearance, documentation, and logistics.

Understanding the Singapore market landscape

Singapore's strategic location as a gateway to Southeast Asia, coupled with its pro-business policies and advanced infrastructure, makes it an attractive destination for international trade. The country is home to dominant industries such as electronics, chemicals, biomedical sciences, and machinery, offering a diverse market for Swiss exporters. 

Swiss pharmaceutical products, precision instruments, and luxury watches are particularly in demand, reflecting Singapore's focus on healthcare innovation, advanced manufacturing, and a luxury-driven consumer market. Moreover, Switzerland’s expertise in clean technology and advanced machinery supports Singapore's ambitions in sustainable development and industrial automation. Singapore's booming fintech industry has also been a significant draw for many Swiss companies seeking to capitalise on the country's advanced technological ecosystem and supportive regulatory framework, with financial services, software, and cybersecurity products seeing increasing interest.

Strategies for successful customs clearance

Understanding taxes and duties

Navigating the customs tariff system in Singapore is crucial for a successful import process. Singapore imposes a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 9% (as of 2024) on all imports, calculated based on the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value. This means that the GST is applied not just on the value of the goods themselves but also includes the cost of international shipping and insurance, making it important for importers to accurately calculate these costs.

Fortunately, businesses can leverage the Switzerland-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (ESFTA) to enjoy reduced or eliminated duties on eligible goods. This agreement provides significant cost savings and competitive advantages for Swiss exporters, making it essential to understand the specific provisions and how they apply to different product categories.

Additionally, accurate classification of goods using Harmonised System (HS) codes is vital to ensure the proper application of duties. HS codes standardise the classification of goods internationally and are used to determine the applicable tariffs and import taxes for each product. Misclassification can lead to various issues, including delays in customs clearance, penalties, or higher duties. Therefore, ensuring that all goods are correctly classified with precise HS codes is essential for smooth and cost-effective shipping operations.

Navigating prohibited and restricted goods

Understanding Singapore's list of prohibited and restricted imports is essential for ensuring compliance with local regulations. Singapore has stringent import regulations, and failure to adhere to these can result in severe legal repercussions, including fines, confiscation of goods, and delays in customs clearance. These restricted items can range from hazardous materials and pharmaceuticals to certain types of food products and electronics.

For goods that fall under the restricted category, it’s imperative to obtain the necessary import licenses and permits well in advance. This involves liaising with the relevant Singaporean regulatory bodies, such as the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) for food items or the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for pharmaceuticals. A proactive approach to securing these permits ensures that shipments are not held up at customs, thus avoiding potential legal issues and costly delays. Additionally, understanding the exact requirements for each contraband item category can help businesses prepare the necessary documentation and packaging, further streamlining the import process.

Ensuring proper documentation

Proper documentation is a cornerstone of smooth customs clearance in Singapore. The key documents required for importing goods into Singapore include the following:

• Commercial Invoice: Provides a comprehensive description of the goods, including their value, quantity, and terms of sale. This document is essential for calculating duties and taxes.

• Packing List: Details the contents of each package within the shipment, helping customs officials verify the physical cargo against the declared items. This document supports the Commercial Invoice by providing a clear breakdown of the shipment's contents, ensuring transparency and aiding in the efficient processing of goods through customs.

• Certificate of Origin: Certifies that the goods originate from Switzerland, making them eligible for reduced or eliminated duties under the ESFTA provisions. This document is particularly important for goods benefiting from the trade agreement, as it ensures that the imports from Switzerland comply with its requirements and can take advantage of preferential treatment.

• Cargo Clearance Permit: authorizes the shipment's entry and ensures that all regulatory and compliance checks have been met. The permit includes details about the shipment, such as the HS codes, quantities, and the consignee's information.

Ensuring that all information provided is precise and consistent across all documents can prevent delays and facilitate a smooth customs clearance process. It’s critical to double-check details such as product descriptions, HS codes, quantities, and values to ensure they match perfectly across all three documents. This attention to detail minimises the risk of discrepancies that could lead to customs hold-ups or penalties.

Mastering packaging requirements

Meeting Singapore's import standards requires adhering to best practices for packaging. This includes ensuring that the packaging provides adequate protection, is properly labelled, and complies with regulatory requirements. Special considerations should be given to goods that are fragile, perishable, or classified as hazardous, as these items require specific packaging solutions to ensure their safe transit and compliance with Singaporean regulations.

Partnering with logistics experts: DHL Express

Partnering with experienced logistics providers like DHL Express can significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of shipping from Switzerland to Singapore. DHL Express offers a range of services tailored to meet the needs of businesses engaged in international trade.

DHL Express provides expert logistics solutions, ensuring that all documentation is accurate and compliant with Singapore's import regulations. Their efficient transit solutions help minimise delays and ensure the timely delivery of goods. Additionally, DHL Express’ deep understanding of Singapore's import procedures and regulations can assist businesses in navigating the complexities of customs clearance, making the shipping process smoother and more predictable.

By leveraging DHL Express’ capabilities, businesses can focus on their core operations while ensuring that their shipments are handled with the utmost care and efficiency. This partnership can help Swiss companies engaging in imports and exports tap into the growing opportunities in the Singaporean market, ensuring that their goods reach their destination safely and on time.