Importing petroleum products and lubricants into Singapore: what is required?
Petroleum products are dutiable and controlled; storage brings further licensing.
The short answer
| Short answer | Petroleum products are dutiable and controlled; storage brings further licensing. |
|---|---|
| Competent Authority | Singapore Customs for duty; SCDF for petroleum and flammable materials |
| Type of requirement | Duty, import controls, and storage licensing above threshold quantities |
Importing petroleum products and lubricants into Singapore
Petroleum products are one of the four dutiable categories in Singapore, and beyond the duty they bring safety licensing when stored in quantity. Lubricants and specialty oils sit in a more varied position depending on their composition and flash point, which is why the safety data sheet rather than the product name determines the treatment.
What is typically involved
Requirements depend on the specific product, so treat this as the shape of the process rather than a checklist for your particular case. Singapore Customs for duty; SCDF for petroleum and flammable materials is the authority on the detail.
- Duty on petroleum products and biodiesel blends, charged by volume.
- A licence for storage of petroleum and flammable materials above threshold quantities, from SCDF.
- Dangerous goods classification for transport, based on flash point and composition.
- A permit per consignment.
- Safety data sheets for the specific products.
What catches importers out
These are the recurring surprises in this category — the points where an assumption carried over from another market causes a problem here.
- Flash point determines the transport classification — product category names are not a reliable guide.
- Storage licensing is often overlooked until quantities accumulate.
- Lubricants and greases vary widely; some are unremarkable and others are regulated.
- Residual product in used containers and drums can bring its own classification.
- Sample quantities are still regulated quantities for transport purposes.
Official sources
Control status depends on the specific product, and requirements change. These are the authorities that decide — confirm your particular goods with them before shipping.
Last reviewed August 2026. This page describes the general framework for this category of goods. It does not determine whether your specific product is controlled — only the relevant Competent Authority can do that.
Questions we get asked about this
Are lubricating oils dutiable?
The dutiable category covers petroleum products and biodiesel blends as defined, and whether a specific lubricant falls within it depends on its composition and classification. Check the position for your specific product rather than assuming all oils are treated alike.
When do I need a storage licence?
Storage of petroleum and flammable materials above threshold quantities requires licensing from SCDF. If you are importing to hold stock rather than for immediate use, address this before the goods arrive.
How is the transport classification determined?
Primarily by flash point and composition, taken from the safety data sheet. Two products with similar commercial descriptions can classify differently. The SDS is the document that governs.
More in Do you need an import permit?
E-Waste & Used Electronics
Yes — waste electronics are controlled, and hazardous waste movement is tightly restricted.
Chemicals & Hazardous Substances
Yes for controlled substances — a licence or permit from NEA, plus transport rules on top.
Radioactive Materials & X-Ray Equipment
Yes — a licence is required, including for equipment that merely contains a source.
Toys & Consumer Products
Safety requirements apply, and specific electrical and gas products need registration before sale.
Prohibited Goods
Some goods cannot be imported into Singapore at all, at any quantity, with any permit.
E-Cigarettes & Vaporisers
Prohibited. There is no permit, licence, or personal allowance that makes this legal.
Related pages
Chemicals & Hazardous Substances
Yes for controlled substances — a licence or permit from NEA, plus transport rules on top.
Dangerous goods
The classes, the paperwork, and the everyday items people do not realise are regulated.
Customs and import coordination
Help understanding what a shipment needs before it clears — permits, declarations, and the information a Declaring Agent will ask for.
TradeNet permit guidance
Plain-language guidance on the TradeNet permit process — what a UEN and Customs Account are for, and how a Declaring Agent fits in.
Have a shipment that fits this?
Start the guided enquiry and describe it in plain terms. We will tell you what is involved — including if the answer is that you do not need us.