Free Trade Agreements/Partnerships
UK-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (UKSFTA)
The UK-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (UKSFTA) deepens economic relations between Singapore and the UK, and enables greater market access for our companies.
About the United Kingdom (UK)-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (UKSFTA)
The UKSFTA is the key pillar underpinning Singapore’s strong and growing economic ties with the United Kingdom (UK). It is the first comprehensive FTA between the UK and an ASEAN member state. It was signed on 10 December 2020, and entered into force on 11 February 2021.
The UKSFTA provides Singapore and UK companies greater market access to our respective markets, and gives them legal certainty and clarity in the trading arrangements between the UK and Singapore.
Then-Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing and then-UK Secretary of State for International Trade Elizabeth Truss signing the UKSFTA, 10 December 2020.
Key features of the UKSFTA
Tariff elimination
Customs duties on virtually all of Singapore’s exports to the UK have been eliminated.
Reduced non-tariff barriers
Mechanisms available to reduce duplicative testing and certification procedures, allowing for lower operational costs.
Customs facilitation
Strengthened cooperation in customs procedures allows businesses to export to each other’s markets more efficiently (e.g. Mutual Recognition Agreement for Authorised Economic Operators).
Enhanced market access to services sectors
Such as engineering; advertising; computer-related services; environmental; maintenance and repair of ships and aircraft; international maritime transport; hotels and restaurants.
Government procurement opportunities
Opportunities to participate in public tenders, including in the transport, financial services and utilities sectors.