Singapore Barcode Application Comprehensive Analysis In-Depth Interpretation of Process and Key Considerations

Singapore Barcode Application Guide Comprehensive Analysis from Process to Key Considerations

With the development of globalization, more and more companies choose to export their products to other countries. As an important commercial center in Southeast Asia, Singapore has attracted the attention of many merchants. When entering the Singapore market, the GS1 Barcode is an essential tool. It not only helps consumers quickly identify product information but also improves supply chain management efficiency, creating competitive advantages for enterprises. This article will detail the application process of Singapore's barcode and the key points to note, helping businesses smoothly carry out operations.

What is a Product Barcode?

A product barcode is an international standard coding system used to identify products, formulated by the global unified coding organization GS1. In Singapore, product barcodes usually appear in EAN-13 format, which is one of the most common types of barcodes. By scanning the barcode, retailers and consumers can easily obtain relevant product information such as production date, shelf life, price, etc., thereby enhancing the shopping experience and reducing human errors.

The Importance of Product Barcodes

In recent years, the rise of e-commerce has made the role of product barcodes even more prominent. According to data from the Singapore Statistics Department, online sales in Singapore grew by 15% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, with food and beverage categories performing particularly well. This means that having an accurate product barcode can help companies stand out in fierce market competition. Many large retailers such as Shopee and Lazada require suppliers to provide valid barcodes to list products. Therefore, applying for a product barcode has become a necessary step for companies to enter the local market.

Singapore Product Barcode Application Process

Step 1 Understand GS1 Membership Qualifications

Firstly, you need to become a formal member of GS1. GS1 Singapore is the only authorized institution in the region responsible for allocating and managing product barcodes. After becoming a member, you can enjoy a series of value-added services, including technical support, training courses, and marketing opportunities. Membership fees vary depending on the size and needs of your enterprise. It is recommended to consult the official customer service in advance to determine the appropriate plan for yourself.

Step 2 Fill Out the Application Form

Log in to the GS1 Singapore website and fill out the product barcode application form online. The form mainly includes the following

Company Basic Information name, address, contact details

Product Details category, brand, specifications, etc.

Barcode Usage Description online sales, offline retail, or others

Please ensure all information is true and accurate, as any inaccuracies may affect the subsequent review progress.

Step 3 Pay the Fee

After submitting the application form, the system will automatically generate an invoice. Currently, the price for a single product barcode is approximately SGD480, including one year of validity. If your company plans to apply for multiple barcodes in bulk, you can enjoy discounts. Payment methods support various convenient channels such as credit cards and PayNow.

Step 4 Wait for Approval

Generally, the entire approval process takes about 7 to 10 working days. During this period, staff will conduct strict reviews of your documents and contact you to confirm any questions or request additional materials. Once approved, you can download the electronic barcode file and print it for actual use.

Key Considerations

1. Confirm Barcode Uniqueness

Each product should be assigned a unique barcode number; do not reuse existing barcodes. This not only demonstrates responsibility to consumers but also avoids damage to brand reputation due to infringement.

2. Regularly Update Information

Even after successfully obtaining a product barcode, regular checks are needed to ensure its validity. For example, when the company address changes or new products are launched, notify GS1 Singapore promptly to update records.

3. Comply with Laws and Regulations

Although Singapore does not have particularly strict restrictions on the use of product barcodes, relevant industry standards must still be followed. For example, in the food sector, additional proof documents such as nutrition labels are required.

4. Consider Long-Term Planning

If you intend to develop the Singapore market long-term, consider purchasing a large number of barcodes at once. This not only saves costs but also eliminates the hassle of repeated applications when expanding business in the future.

Conclusion

In summary, although applying for a product barcode in Singapore may seem complex, as long as the correct steps are followed and attention is paid to details, it can be completed successfully. As an international enterprise, mastering this skill undoubtedly opens the door to success. I hope this guide provides inspiration for Chinese companies considering entering the Singapore market. Wishing everyone success!