If you are a big fan of goose dishes, you might notice that they taste different lately. This is because Singapore now imports a bulk of frozen goose from Hungary. Taiwan used to be the biggest source of frozen goose but Singapore suspended them because of the detection of Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) H5N2 in 2011. The Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) pointed out that the suspension has not been lifted because of the ensuing outbreaks.
If you want to import meat or any goods, you should strictly follow the guidelines and the requirements imposed by the Singapore Customs. If you attempt to evade this, you will surely face serious punishments. Do not transact illegally here in Singapore. Here are the things that you need to know about importing:
Overview
You should be familiar with the Customs Act, Regulation of Imports & Exports Act and other pertinent secondary legislations here in Singapore if you are serious about importing. Basically, all imported goods are subjected to duty or GST (Goods Services Tax) payment. For dutiable goods (like petroleum, motor vehicles, tobacco products and liquors), duty and/or GST payment are required. For non-dutiable products, GST payment is only required.
GST Payment and Duties
Upon the importation of their specific goods, the importer is accountable for all payments like GST, duties and miscellaneous to Singapore Customs. The importer has two options here in terms of payment. The importer can apply IBG (Interbank GIRO) account with Singapore Customs for payments and duties. The importer can also choose to employ an agent to deal with the processes and fees on their behalf.
Import Requirements
Before importing, the importer must make sure that they obtain necessary permits. For companies that will import electricity, water and natural gas, they can refer to Procedures and Systems Branch for requirements. For controlled goods, the importer should refer to CA (Competent Authorities). A good cannot be imported if it is sanctioned by the UNSC (United Nations Security Council). For dutiable goods, duty and/or GST payment may be deferred if they store it in LW (Licensed Warehouse). As for the non-dutiable goods, GST will also be deferred if they store it in ZGS (Zero GST Warehouse).
Temporary Importation
You should also know that there are certain goods that can be imported temporarily. Generally, all goods can be imported temporarily for a period of six months. This is called TIS (Temporary Import Scheme) but of course there are exceptions. Tobacco and liquors are not included in TIS. TIS is only applicable for goods that will be utilized for fairs, testing, exhibitions, auctions and the like.
You should comply with the rules and regulations of importing so you can have a smooth transaction. The Customs is reminding all the importers not to evade the regulations because they will face serious charges.