Exporting Trade Samples

Trade samples refer to goods exported solely for the purpose of being shown or demonstrated overseas. For example, trade samples may be exported:

To solicit orders for goods to be supplied abroad; or
To a manufacturer for the purposes of copying, testing or experimenting before being produced abroad

Controlled & Non-Controlled Trade Samples

You are advised to check if your trade sample is a controlled item before exporting it.

Type of Trade Sample	Export Permit Required?
Non-controlled trade samples, including specimens for analysis or test, and gifts, of a total value not exceeding S$400 *Exporters should indicate the goods as “Trade Samples” in the commercial invoice and the Bill of Lading/Air Waybill.	No
Non-controlled trade samples, including specimens for analysis or test, and gifts, of a total value exceeding S$400	Yes
Controlled trade samples (regardless of value)	Yes

More information here on controlled and prohibited goods, and how to check if your goods are subject to control.

Temporary Export

For trade samples that are temporarily exported and intended to be returned to Singapore, they must be re-imported to Singapore within 3 months from the date of export.

Find out more about temporary export procedures here.