Strategic Trade Scheme Bulk Permit

The Strategic Trade Scheme (STS) Bulk Permit allows your business to obtain a single approval for the export, re-export, transhipment or transmission (including intangible technology transfers) of pre-approved strategic goods. Singapore Customs determines the validity of the Bulk Permit, which is designed for businesses with high transaction volumes or short lead times.

With this permit, you may apply for the TradeNet permit before lodging the cargo, instead of applying for an individual permit 5 working days before shipment, as long as the transaction falls within the pre-approved scope. This ensures smoother trade flows while protecting national and global security.

Types of Bulk Permits

Qualifying for the Bulk Permit

You must:

• Be a registered trader with Singapore Customs

• Have good compliance records

• Undergo TradeFIRST assessment and achieve at least Enhanced Band and meet all mandatory criteria

• Implement an effective Internal Compliance Programme (ICP)

The Seven ICP Elements

• Company’s commitment

• Appointed strategic goods control officer(s)*

• Product screening

• End-user screening

• Record keeping

• Awareness and training

• Internal audits

*The appointed strategic goods control officer(s) must be based in Singapore or remain contactable via a Singapore contact and be familiar with the SGCA and its Regulations and other related domestic legislation. 

Refer to Annex A of the STS Handbook for more details. 

How to Apply for Bulk Permit

1. Complete the Bulk Permit application form.

2. Submit the form, TradeFIRST Self-Assessment Checklist and supporting documents to the Schemes and Licence Management Branch.

3. Once submitted, a Customs officer will be assigned as your primary contact. 

4. Singapore Customs will conduct a TradeFIRST assessment and site validation, including a review of your ICP.

5. You will be informed of the assessment outcome, your final TradeFIRST band, and provided the assessment report.

Applying for TradeNet Permits under a Pre-Approved Bulk Permit

If your transactions fall within the scope of the pre-approved Bulk Permit:

• Apply for the TradeNet permit before lodging the cargo with the sea or air operators.

• For strategic goods also regulated by other Competent Authorities (e.g. arms, munitions, chemical precursors), only one TradeNet application is required, automatically routed to the relevant authorities.

Key Responsibilities of a Bulk Permit Holder

You must:

• Notify Singapore Customs within 14 days of any changes to your ICP, organisation structure, internal processes, or trade compliance team or Strategic Goods Control Officer (SGCO).

• Ensure every transaction falls within the permit’s approved scope.

• Ensure the goods, technology or documents to be exported, re-exported, transhipped or transmitted under the Bulk Permit are not intended or likely to be used, wholly or in part, for, or in connection with, activities related to any nuclear, chemical or biological weapons; or missiles capable of delivering such weapons.

• Do not transfer goods or technology to UN Security Council-sanctioned countries or entities.

• Keep records of all strategic goods transactions for at least 5 years.

Refer to Section 4.9 of the STS Handbook for more details.