Sunglasses 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 Sunglasses
Importing sunglasses from South Korea into Singapore attracts a 0% duty and a 7% VAT, calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value in SGD. This means that for every SGD 100 of CIF value, you will pay SGD 7 in VAT, resulting in a total cost of SGD 107.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | EUR 118.13 |
| Shipping | — | EUR 0.00 |
| Insurance | — | EUR 0.00 |
| CIF Value | — | EUR 118.13 |
| Customs Duty | 0% | EUR 0.00 |
| VAT/GST | 7% | EUR 8.27 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | EUR 126.40 |
HS Code Classification for Sunglasses
Primary HS Code: 9004.100000 — What It Covers
The primary HS code for sunglasses is 9004.100000, which covers sunglasses with lenses made of glass or other materials. When importing sunglasses, accurate classification is vital to avoid penalties.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in Singapore
Misclassification of HS code can result in a penalty of up to 10% of the total duty payable or S$5,000, whichever is greater, as enforced by Singapore Customs.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Sunglasses from South Korea to Singapore
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Verify that your sunglasses are classified under the correct HS code, 9004.100000, to ensure compliance with Singapore Customs regulations.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and packing list, to facilitate smooth clearance of your sunglasses shipment.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
A commercial invoice must include details such as the CIF value, HS code, and country of origin, which is South Korea in this case.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is required to prove that the sunglasses are originating from South Korea and to claim preferential tariff treatment under the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A packing list and other shipping documents, such as a bill of lading or air waybill, must be prepared and submitted to Singapore Customs along with the commercial invoice and certificate of origin.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
Calculate your landed cost using the formula: CIF + Duty (0%) + VAT (7%) = Total, where CIF is the cost of the sunglasses plus insurance and freight, in SGD.
Step 4: Submit to Singapore Customs Authority
Submit your shipment details and supporting documents to Singapore Customs for clearance, ensuring that all requirements are met to avoid delays or penalties.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
Pay the applicable duties and taxes, which in this case is 7% VAT, and clear your sunglasses shipment from Singapore Customs.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Sunglasses Imports into Singapore
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
The Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement provides for the elimination or reduction of tariffs on sunglasses imported from South Korea into Singapore, making it an attractive option for importers.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
Consider using Singapore Free Trade Zones or bonded warehouses to defer duty payment on your sunglasses imports, allowing for more flexible cash flow management.
Preferential Tariff Programs
Take advantage of preferential tariff programs, such as the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, to reduce or eliminate duties on your sunglasses imports, while wearing your favorite sunglasses to celebrate the cost savings.
Singapore Customs Compliance Rules for Sunglasses
Singapore Customs Requirements for Sunglasses
Singapore Customs requires importers to comply with various regulations, including the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Regulations and relevant Singapore Standards, when importing sunglasses.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold in Singapore is SGD 400, below which no duties or taxes are payable, but importers must still comply with all relevant regulations and requirements, even when wearing sunglasses to review the documents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunglasses Import Duty from South Korea to Singapore
What is the HS code for sunglasses?
The primary HS code for sunglasses is 9004.100000. This code covers sunglasses with lenses made of glass or other materials.
What is the duty rate for sunglasses imported from South Korea?
The duty rate for sunglasses imported from South Korea is 0%, as per the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
What is the VAT rate for sunglasses in Singapore?
The VAT rate for sunglasses in Singapore is 7%, calculated on the CIF value in SGD.
Do I need a certificate of origin for sunglasses imports?
Yes, a certificate of origin is required to prove that the sunglasses are originating from South Korea and to claim preferential tariff treatment under the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Can I use a bonded warehouse to store my sunglasses imports?
Yes, you can use a Singapore Free Trade Zone or bonded warehouse to store your sunglasses imports and defer duty payment.
What are the compliance requirements for sunglasses imports in Singapore?
Importers must comply with various regulations, including the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Regulations and relevant Singapore Standards, and obtain necessary certifications, such as a PSB test report or certificate.