Firms transshipping through S’pore must declare the true country of origin of goods: MTI

This comes after a White House report naming Singapore as part of China’s ‘shadow transshipment network’.

SINGAPORE - Companies transshipping goods through Singapore are expected to fully comply with the Republic’s laws and regulations, including accurately declaring the country and region of origin, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Aug 15.

The MTI was responding to queries from The Straits Times about a report issued on Aug 13 by US President Donald Trump’s administration that flagged Singapore and dozens of other economies as at risk of being used by Chinese exporters to avoid US tariffs.

The report issued by the White House, titled “The Great Transshipment Scam”, framed the routing of Chinese goods through an intermediate lower-tariff country as an elaborate scheme to conceal their true origin.

The ministry noted that Singapore’s economic competitiveness is underpinned by strong rule of law, transparent regulations, as well as zero tolerance for fraud, corruption and criminal activities.

As a trusted international business hub, Singapore is committed to upholding the international reputation that it has built up over time and safeguarding the integrity of our business environment, said MTI.

The transshipment of goods is governed by the Regulation of Imports and Exports Act 1995, and the Strategic Goods (Control) Act 2002.

MTI cited a June 2025 Singapore Customs circular to all traders and declaring agents reiterating the importance of accurate “Country/Region of Origin” declarations in permit applications.

The circular stated that all customs declarations, including Singapore’s import, export and transshipment permit applications, are required to be accurate and truthful under the Customs Act and Regulation of Imports and Exports Act.

“An incorrect declaration, including as to country/region of origin, may amount to an offence and result in penalties,” the circular stated.

Traders are also required to maintain a record of documents – including proof of origin – relating to the purchase, import, sale or export of their goods for at least five years from the date of permit application approval.

MTI said: “Singapore does not condone businesses using their association with Singapore and using fraudulent and dishonest means to circumvent or violate the laws and regulations of other countries. Singapore will also not hesitate to take firm and decisive action against any violation of our laws.”