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Singapore Customs

Singapore Duty-Paid Cigarette Mark

Understand the Singapore Duty-Paid Cigarette marking requirements for duty-paid cigarettes and learn how to submit a complete application for approval from Singapore Customs.

Last updated 24 February 2026

Since 1 January 2009, all cigarettes intended for sale and consumption in Singapore must bear the Singapore Duty-Paid Cigarette (SDPC) mark, in compliance with the Customs Regulations. This applies to every individual cigarette stick.

Marking Specification

Every cigarette stick must display the SDPC marking, following these specifications:

Diagram showing the required SDPC marking on a cigarette stick, including distances, bar height, thickness and spacing.

Specification diagram showing the required placement, size and spacing of the SDPC marking on a cigarette stick.

Application Procedure

Importers and manufacturers must obtain approval from Singapore Customs before importing or producing any new cigarette brand or variant for sale in Singapore. 

Here are the steps to apply for approval:

Step 1: Complete the online application for SDPC approval.

Step 2: Upload the following supporting documents in the online application.

  • Clear photographs of the cigarette sample placed against a ruler or measuring device.

Photo of a cigarette sample placed against a ruler to show the SDPC marking and measurement points for submission.

Example of how to photograph a cigarette sample against a ruler to show the SDPC marking and measurement points.

  • Detailed SDPC mark specifications for each sample, including all measurements listed in the Mark Requirements section.

SDPC Marking and Vertical Bar Design Specifications

For SDPC marking

For vertical bars

Distance from the cigarette end that is to be lighted: _____ mm

Distance from the letters "SDPC" : _____ mm

Height of block letters: _____ mm

Height of vertical bars: _____ mm

Typeface (Font type): _____

Thickness of vertical bars: _____ mm

Colour of SDPC marking: ___

Space between each vertical bar: _____ mm


Typeface (Font type): ____

Colour of vertical bars: ____

Step 3: Submit your application for processing.

Step 4: Singapore Customs will review your submissions and respond within 7 working days, provided all information is complete. 

Contact Us

For further guidance on the SDPC application procedure, you can: