To sell or operate electronic and telecom equipment in Singapore, manufacturers and importers must comply with regulations overseen by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Enterprise Singapore. The key certification schemes are:
- IMDA Type Approval – for wireless, telecom, and RF equipment
- Safety Mark – for consumer electrical products
1. IMDA Type Approval (Wireless and Telecom Equipment)
Regulator: Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)
Applies to: All telecom and radio communication equipment sold or used in Singapore
Products requiring IMDA approval:
- Mobile phones and cellular modules
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices
- Routers, switches, modems
- IoT devices using RF or cellular communication
- RFID readers, satellite receivers, walkie-talkies
Certification process:
- Determine if the product falls under IMDA’s list of controlled telecom equipment
- Conduct testing in an IMDA-recognized testing laboratory, typically based on ETSI or IEC standards
- Appoint a local Singaporean entity to apply on your behalf
- Submit application and technical documents via IMDA's online system
- Upon approval, the product is issued a Certificate of Conformity (COC)
Labeling requirements:
- Products must be labeled with the IMDA Compliance Label
- The label includes the words "Complies with IMDA Standards DBxxxxxx"
Validity and renewal:
- Certificate is valid as long as no changes are made to the product design or specs
- Re-approval may be needed if there are hardware or RF changes
Special notes:
- Low-power RF devices using approved frequency bands may be exempt from extensive testing
- Spectrum management and licensing may apply for high-power or licensed-band equipment
2. Safety Mark (Electrical Products)
Regulator: Enterprise Singapore (via the Consumer Product Safety Office – CPSO)
Applies to: Household and consumer electrical/electronic products
Products requiring Safety Mark:
- Phone chargers and adapters
- Electric kettles, hair dryers, ovens
- Power banks, power strips, washing machines
- Over 30 categories of Controlled Goods listed under the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Regulations
Certification process:
- Identify whether your product is a Controlled Good under Singapore law
- Conduct product safety testing at a designated Conformity Assessment Body (CAB), typically to IEC/SS standards
- Appoint a Registered Supplier based in Singapore
- Apply for registration through the CPSO online portal
- Once approved, apply the Safety Mark on the product and packaging
Labeling requirements:
- The Safety Mark must be a red triangle with the word “SAFETY” and include a unique registration number
- Must be affixed permanently on the product
Validity and renewal:
- Registration is valid for 3 years and must be renewed
- Surveillance or random testing may occur during the certification period
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Singapore market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Singapore can feel complex, but it’s essential for legal market entry and consumer safety. Whether you're launching smart devices, network equipment, or household electronics—compliance is your passport to Singapore.
Need help managing Singapore approvals? We are happy to guide you through it!
