All traders must register with Singapore Customs if they wish to engage in import and export activities in Singapore and obtain licences and permits to import/export goods.

Trader Registration
Permits To Import/Export/Tranship Goods
Controlled Goods
Strategic Goods
Tips For New Traders

Trader Registration

• Before you can start trading, you need to register as a trader with Singapore Customs to import/export goods in and out of Singapore.
  
  
• Only businesses registered with the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (ACRA) are eligible to register as traders. If you are an individual, please register as a sole-proprietor with ACRA first.
  
  
• Registered traders will be given a Central Registration (CR) Number to submit import/export permit applications through TradeNet®.

See:	• Register Your Business
	• Trader Registration
	• Register with Singapore Customs

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• To import/export/transship goods, you must apply for an Import Permit, Export Permit or Transhipment Permit for each shipment of goods.
  
  

  See:	• Importing Goods from Overseas
  	• Exporting Goods
  	• Transhipping Goods Through Singapore

• You can apply for these permits on your own using TradeNet® or through your freight forwarder or cargo agent.
  
  

  See:	• Learn more about TradeNet®
  	• Freight forwarders and cargo agents

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• If your goods are “controlled” goods (e.g. food products or films), your permit application must first be approved by the “Competent Authority” that regulates these goods.
  
  
• Your permit may not be approved if you do not have the necessary licences to deal in these goods.