Importing Dutch Groceries

[Ivy Lim]

Hi

I am thinking to import Dutch groceries to Singapore but I am not sure if this is workable. Aware that Singapore is currently negotiate the free trade agreement with EU, thinking this might help to get rid of tax. However, not sure if the market segment is wide enough for me to start this business. Any advise?

Thank you.

[sundaymorningstaple]

Already got Tulip ham, what.

[Ivy Lim]

The only market is located in Bukit Timah - German Market, I didn't see any Dutch Market in Singapore. Thanks.

[x9200]

The tricky part is that although the German grocery is called German it fits to the tastes of many European or Western customers while Dutch Grocery would be more narrow for the product choice and more specific or the goods are already here. What would you like to import? Stroopwaffles? Cheese? Both available in SG. Salty licorices? Rather specific. Even if the Dutch population in SG is probably larger than the German it may be not enough to sustain the business.

[Ivy Lim]

x9200

Yes, you are pretty right, I checked it out on last weekend and discussed with some of my dutch friends too. They do really miss some foods in Netherland, but the market in fact is too narrow in Singapore. It do has difficulty to sustain the business.

Perhaps, the free trade agreement able to benefit the import products from EU to ASEAN. I am actually still figure out something as I believe this is workable but I do really need more advise, and responses like what you have provided. Grateful

[x9200]

If this agreement is only about reducing your costs it may not help. You are probably targeting the upper/upper-middle class segment (majority are expats). The difference in food prices will be negligible unless the price for the products is completely unrealistic. IMO your main concern would be sufficient volume.

[Ivy Lim]

x9200

You are great! I got to find out more before start the business. I can't PM yet, actually I have some questions to seek for your advise.

Anyway, really thankful on your advises

[x9200]

Oh no, I am completely not an expert here. Just some thought. Better ask it openly in here for your own benefit and the benefits of the others.

BTW, you can PM as you have more than 5 posts.