Importing unfinished animal products
How to import unfinished animal products
Last updated 8 November 2025
Unfinished animal products are raw or unprocessed animal-derived materials that are not meant for human consumption.
All unfinished animal products brought into Singapore must satisfy the permit requirements listed in the table below.
Required permit documents for type of unfinished animal products
Type of unfinished animal product | Required documents |
Non-CITES listed |
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CITES-listed |
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To find out which animal species are listed by CITES, refer to the CITES Appendices.
Obtain Supporting Documents
The supporting documents needed to bring in unfinished animal products include treatment certificates, sanitary certificates, and export health certificates. These certificates must contain the following details:
Species of animal (scientific and common names)
Description of item (type/nature of item)
Country of origin
Treatment process
Certification that the item was derived from clinically healthy animals (if applicable)
How to apply for Cargo Clearance Permit
Each consignment must be accompanied by a cargo clearance permit for import clearance at the port of entry. This permit serves as an AVS-issued import permit.
You can obtain this permit by making an inward declaration via TradeNet.
How to apply for CITES permits
1. Obtain a CITES export or re-export permit from the country of export.
Obtain a CITES export or re-export permit from the relevant CITES management authority or the relevant authority of the exporting country. This permit is needed to apply for an AVS-issued CITES import permit.
The list of CITES member countries and their contact details is available here.
2. Obtain an AVS-issued CITES import permit.
Apply for and obtain an NParks-issued CITES import permit via GoBusiness Licensing Portal.
This CITES import permit is valid for 180 days only.
How to make appointment for border control inspection
If border control inspection is required, you can book an inspection appointment via this link. Please submit your appointment request at least five days before your consignment’s arrival.
Bringing animals for inspection without making an appointment will subject you to an inspection fee of S$133 per hour or part thereof