On 7 May 2026, Singapore Customs announced that:
- Effective from 1 August 2026, manufacturers and traders must submit all Ordinary Certificate of Origin (“OCO“) applications (comprising both the OCO and the Certificate of Processing) electronically through the respective digital platforms of the five authorised organisations (“AOs“) i.e. the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Singapore International Chamber of Commerce, Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Singapore Manufacturing Federation.
- Manual submissions will no longer be accepted after 1 August 2026, and there will be no grace period provided for manual submissions after this date. However, manual OCO applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed by the AOs.
This move aligns with Singapore’s broader digital transformation objectives and is intended to enhance the OCO process for manufacturers and traders and to improve efficiency. With electronic submission, manufacturers and traders will be able to conveniently apply for OCOs at any time and monitor the status of their applications, while the AOs will benefit from automated processes and improved record-keeping capabilities.
Manufacturers and traders are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their AOs’ electronic OCO application procedures. This could include making arrangements to onboard and test the electronic submission process ahead of the implementation date to ensure a smooth transition.
Click on the following link for more information:
- Singapore Customs’ Circular No. 07/2026 titled “Transition to Full Electronic Submission of Ordinary Certificate of Origin (OCO) Applications by 1 August 2026” (available on the Singapore Customs website at www.customs.gov.sg)
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