Feature Articles
Change in Harmonised System (HS) Code for Import/Transhipment Permit Declaration for Biological Agents and Toxins Regulated under the Biological Agents and Toxins Act (BATA)
6 February 2026
With effect from 1 Mar 2026, the HS code for all BATA-regulated biological material except for biological agents identified as yeast will change from 30029000 to 30024900. There will be NO change to the HS code for BATA-regulated biological agents identified as yeast, which will remain as 21021000. A summary of the guidance on the use of MOH product codes and corresponding HS codes for import/transhipment permit application can be found in Table 1.
Table 1: Guidance of Product Codes and Corresponding HS Codes for Import Permit/Transhipment Application on Singapore Customs’ Tradenet Portal.
BATA- regulated Biological Material | MOH Product Code or ISP Code | HS code applicable Up to 28 February 2026 | HS code applicable From 1 March 2026 onwards | Remarks |
First, Second and Fourth Schedule biological agents | MOH Product Code | HS 30029000 | HS 30024900 | Change in HS code |
Inactivated First or Second biological agents | MOH Product Code | |||
Fifth Schedule toxins | MOH Product Code | |||
Proficiency Test Panel or Test standard material | MOH ISP Code | |||
Fourth Schedule Yeast | MOH Product Code | HS 21021000 | HS 21021000 | No change in HS Code |
To ensure smooth processing during this transition, please take note of the guidance provided in Table 2 below with regards to the application submission timelines and the use of the appropriate HS code for import/transhipment permit applications on Singapore Customs' Tradenet Portal.
Table 2: Guidance on Import/Transhipment Permit Application Submission Timelines
Time Period | Advice on Application Submission |
Until 27 February 2026, 1700hrs | Permit applications shall be submitted using MOH product code with existing HS Code 30029000. |
From 27 February 2026, 1701hrs to 28 February, 2359hrs | Avoid submitting permit application during this period to prevent rejection or processing delays. |
From 1 Mar 2026 0000hrs onwards. | Permit applications shall be submitted using existing MOH product code with the new HS Code 30024900. |
For detailed information on the HS code change, please refer to the following documents:
1) Notice of HS Code Change
2) FAQ on HS Code Change
3) List of Biological Agents and Toxins