Cosmetics Import Duty & Landed Cost: South Korea to Singapore
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into Singapore.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Cosmetics
Importing cosmetics from South Korea to Singapore incurs a 0% duty and a 7% VAT on the CIF value in SGD. The total cost will be calculated based on the CIF value plus the 7% VAT, as there is no duty payable.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | EUR 13550.39 |
| Shipping | — | EUR 0.00 |
| Insurance | — | EUR 0.00 |
| CIF Value | — | EUR 13550.39 |
| Customs Duty | 0% | EUR 0.00 |
| VAT/GST | 7% | EUR 948.53 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | EUR 14498.92 |
HS Code Classification for Cosmetics
Primary HS Code: 3304.991000 — What It Covers
The primary HS code for cosmetics is 3304.991000, which covers a range of cosmetic products. Singapore Customs requires accurate HS code classification to avoid misclassification penalties.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in Singapore
Misclassification of HS codes can result in a penalty of up to 10 times the amount of duty payable, or S$5,000, whichever is greater, as per Singapore Customs regulations.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Cosmetics from South Korea to Singapore
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Verify the HS code and product description to ensure accuracy and compliance with Singapore Customs regulations. This step is critical to avoid misclassification penalties.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Gather all required import documents, including the commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and packing list. These documents must be accurate and complete to facilitate smooth clearance.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
The commercial invoice must include the HS code, product description, quantity, and value of the goods. The invoice must be in SGD and include the CIF value.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is required to verify the country of origin and to claim preferential tariffs under the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A packing list and shipping documents, such as the bill of lading or air waybill, are required to facilitate clearance and delivery.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
Calculate the landed cost using the formula: CIF + Duty (0%) + VAT (7%) = Total, in SGD. This will give you the total cost of importing the cosmetics.
Step 4: Submit to Singapore Customs Authority
Submit the import declaration and supporting documents to Singapore Customs for clearance. Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
Pay the applicable duties and taxes, and clear the goods from the port of entry. The goods can then be delivered to the consignee.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Cosmetics Imports into Singapore
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
The Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement provides for the elimination or reduction of tariffs on cosmetics imported from South Korea into Singapore. This can result in significant duty savings.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
Consider using a bonded warehouse or the Singapore Free Trade Zone to defer duty payment until the goods are released into the local market.
Preferential Tariff Programs
Take advantage of preferential tariff programs, such as the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement Tariff Reduction, to reduce duty liability.
Singapore Customs Compliance Rules for Cosmetics
Singapore Customs Requirements for Cosmetics
Singapore Customs requires importers to comply with all regulations, including the requirement for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification and Cosmetic Control Unit (CCU) notification.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold is 400 SGD, below which no duties or taxes are payable. However, Singapore Customs still requires compliance with all regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetics Import Duty from South Korea to Singapore
What is the duty rate for importing cosmetics from South Korea to Singapore?
The duty rate is 0% for cosmetics imported from South Korea to Singapore. However, a 7% VAT is applicable on the CIF value in SGD.
What is the HS code for cosmetics imported into Singapore?
The primary HS code for cosmetics is 3304.991000, which covers a range of cosmetic products.
Do I need to notify the Health Sciences Authority before importing cosmetics?
Yes, importers must notify the Health Sciences Authority of their intention to import cosmetics at least 2 weeks prior to importation.
Can I use a bonded warehouse to store my cosmetics imports?
Yes, you can use a bonded warehouse, such as the Singapore Free Trade Zone, to store your cosmetics imports and defer duty payment.
What are the requirements for commercial invoices for cosmetics imports?
The commercial invoice must include the HS code, product description, quantity, and value of the goods, and must be in SGD and include the CIF value.
What is the penalty for misclassifying HS codes for cosmetics imports?
The penalty for misclassifying HS codes can be up to 10 times the amount of duty payable, or S$5,000, whichever is greater, as per Singapore Customs regulations.