Ecommerce business start up in SG - Licensing required

[ellatyne]

Hello everyone,

I have been doing some research about starting a business in Singapore and was hoping for a bit of advice if you don't mind!

The business I want to start will be selling a food product online. So customer would purchase and pay online and food item would be delivered, probably by courier.

I have a full understanding of how to set up a business, the need for a Singaporean or PR to be the Director and who can and cannot do what depending on employment status.

The bit that I would love some advice on, if anyone could provide is the sort of licensing required for this sort of business.

From what I read an ecommerce business doesn't need a license (considered as "class licensees"), however I did want to throw this out there to see if anyone has a different view on the matter, or whether the detail of what is being sold has an impact there, which it may well do. I have found it a little difficult to find a great level of detail on licensing for different types of ecommerce businesses so your input would be gratefully received.

Many thanks in advance for your time,

Ella

[x9200]

A license may be required to ensure you follow specific standards for food handling, preparation, perhaps storage. If your business includes such things (especially preparation) then online or not I would expect the license is needed.

[Vivpes]

Ecommerce business do not need a license as far as I believe as it's online based. However you do need to follow the local government laws and show it as a business and pay taxes off your income if any. You are applicable to pay that as you are operating it from the country even if it's online or virtually based.

[ellatyne]

Thank you both for your replies.

I also believe that is I were required to do the food production the ecommerce element would not negate my need for those licenses. At the moment I am considering the idea of selling a product that is prepared by another business in order that I do not have to consider the licensing in that area. This would certainly keep it the most simple to start.

Any other comments welcomed.

Thanks,

Ella

[Strong Eagle]

Importing processed food into Singapore for sale also comes with regulations. You might want to read this website, then check the AVA

https://www.guidemesingapore.com/busine ... -singapore

https://www.ifaq.gov.sg/AVA/apps/fcd_fa ... TOPIC_5028

[taxico]

the responsibilities behind/around selling food is... something to be taken quite seriously.

poor food hygiene kills.

if a physical shop has to buy liability insurance to cover that, i don't see why an "online shop" or portal/intermediary could get around it except by taking unacceptable risks.

i suspect selling to your friends and relatives by word of mouth during lun ar new year (whichever sort) is different from an online presence...

in singapore, i suspect it's more hands on (NEA and HDB regulations) than off, but i'm not all dialed into this... google is your friend.