Looking to start an importing business in Singapore for Food products or Pet Products

Hi everyone,

I’m currently exploring the possibility of starting a small import business focusing on either 1) Food / Snacks from overseas for human consumption or 2) pet products particularly Pet supplements & Pet shampoos

I’m still very early in the research stage and would like to get some suggestions from fellow redditors who are in the importing/distribution business.

I’m especially interested in understanding how you started, mistakes you made, costs you underestimated, and what you would do differently if you were starting again today.

as well i have the following questions.

1. Which would be easier to import into Singapore in terms of regulation and complexity, 1) Food / Snacks for humans or 2) Pet Supplements / Products.

2. What is your process for checking whether a new product can legally be imported and sold in Singapore

3. How do you determine whether a product is commercially viable before importing it?

4. What has been the hardest part of the business: finding suppliers, regulatory compliance, logistics, getting customers, managing cash flow, dealing with retailers, or something else?

Hope to hear from everyone!