Complete Guide: How Chinese Companies Can Exhibit in Singapore (Step-by-Step 2026)

ingapore has become the premier exhibition destination for Chinese companies looking to expand into Southeast Asia and global markets. With over 150 major trade shows annually generating SGD 8.89 billion in MICE sector revenue, and the China-Singapore visa-free agreement effective since February 9, 2024, there has never been a better time for Chinese businesses to participate in Singapore exhibitions.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step—from visa requirements and exhibition selection to booth booking, shipping logistics, and post-show follow-up—ensuring your Singapore exhibition experience delivers maximum ROI.

Why Singapore is the Ideal Exhibition Destination for Chinese Businesses

Singapore serves as Asia's undisputed MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hub, offering strategic advantages that make it the perfect launching pad for Chinese companies targeting regional and global markets.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Singapore connects with over 160 cities across 50 countries, providing access to nearly 4 billion people within a 7-hour flight radius. This positions Chinese exhibitors to reach buyers from ASEAN, South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond—all from a single exhibition.

Business-Friendly Environment

With 15 consecutive years ranking #1 in global business environment assessments, Singapore hosts approximately 4,200 regional headquarters—the highest in Asia-Pacific. The city-state's transparent legal system, political stability, and pro-business policies create an environment where international exhibitors can operate with confidence.

Growing China-Singapore Trade Relations

Since the RCEP agreement implementation, China-Singapore bilateral cooperation has deepened significantly. Chinese companies have generated over S$533 million in trade value through participation in exhibitions like the China International Import Expo (CIIE), demonstrating the substantial business opportunities available.

Singapore Visa Requirements for Chinese Exhibitors (Updated 2024-2025)

Understanding entry requirements is crucial before planning your Singapore exhibition participation.

China-Singapore Visa-Free Agreement (30 Days)

Effective February 9, 2024, holders of ordinary passports issued by the People's Republic of China are exempted from visa requirements for stays of up to 30 days in Singapore. This applies to:

• Tourism

• Business visits

• Family visits

• Exhibition attendance (as visitor or exhibitor)

• Trade meetings and networking

Important Notes:

• Diplomatic, public affairs, and service passport holders continue to enjoy visa exemption under existing agreements

• Holders of other PRC travel documents (PRC Travel Document, Hong Kong SAR Document of Identity, Macau SAR Travel Permit) must still apply for entry visas

• For stays exceeding 30 days or for work/employment purposes, appropriate visas must be obtained in advance

Official Resource:

• Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) - Visa Requirements

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore - China Travel Page

SG Arrival Card (SGAC) Requirements

All travelers entering Singapore must submit the SG Arrival Card with Electronic Health Declaration within 3 days before arrival (including arrival day).

How to Submit SGAC:

1. Visit the official ICA website or download the MyICA mobile app

2. Fill in personal information and passport details

3. Provide travel and accommodation details

4. Submit health declaration

5. Receive confirmation via email (PDF document)

Key Points:

• SGAC submission is FREE of charge

• Do NOT use third-party services that charge fees

• Valid for 3 days from submission date

• Not a visa—separate from visa requirements

Official Resource:

• SG Arrival Card Official Portal

Step-by-Step Guide: Attend Singapore Exhibition as a Visitor from China

Step 1: Select Your Target Exhibition

Singapore hosts exhibitions across virtually every industry sector. Major categories include:

Research Resources:

• Singapore Tourism Board - MICE Events

• Singapore Expo Event Calendar

• EventsEye - Singapore Trade Shows

Step 2: Complete Visitor Pre-Registration

Most Singapore exhibitions require online pre-registration:

1. Visit the official exhibition website

2. Navigate to "Visitor Registration" section

3. Create an account with your email

4. Fill in required information:

   • Full name (as in passport)

   • Company name and address in China

   • Job title/position

   • Industry sector

   • Contact details (email, phone)

5. Upload business card (if required)

6. Submit registration

7. Receive confirmation email with e-badge/QR code

Pro Tip: Many exhibitions offer free admission for trade visitors who pre-register; walk-in visitors may be charged.

Step 3: Request Invitation Letter (If Needed)

While Chinese citizens enjoy visa-free entry, an official invitation letter can be useful for:

• Company travel approval documentation

• Expense reimbursement claims

• Backup documentation for immigration

How to Request:

1. Complete visitor registration first

2. Select "Request Invitation Letter" option during registration

3. Or email the exhibition organizer directly with:

   • Full name (as in passport)

   • Passport number

   • Company name

   • Purpose of visit

4. Download the invitation letter from your registration portal

Step 4: Book Travel and Accommodation

Flights:

• Direct flights available from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and other major Chinese cities

• Flight time: 4-6 hours depending on departure city

• Book 6-9 months in advance for major exhibitions to secure better rates

Accommodation:

• Hotels near venues (Singapore Expo, Marina Bay Sands, Suntec)

• Consider exhibition official hotel partners for discounted rates

• Budget: SGD 150-400/night for business-class hotels

Step 5: Submit SG Arrival Card

Within 3 days before departure:

1. Go to ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart/entering-singapore/sg-arrival-card

2. Complete the electronic form

3. Save confirmation email/PDF

4. Keep accessible for immigration reference

Step 6: Arrive and Enter Singapore

At Changi Airport:

1. Proceed to immigration counters

2. Present:

   • Valid Chinese ordinary passport (minimum 6 months validity)

   • Return/onward flight ticket

3. If asked about purpose: "Attending [exhibition name] as a visitor"

4. Receive electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) via email indicating permitted stay duration

After Immigration:

• Transportation to venue/hotel: MRT, taxi, or Grab/Gojek

• Keep passport and e-Pass confirmation accessible

Step 7: Attend the Exhibition

At the Venue:

1. Bring your e-badge/QR code (from registration confirmation)

2. Present at registration counter

3. Collect physical badge (if provided)

4. Follow venue rules and dress code (business casual recommended)

Maximize Your Visit:

• Plan your route using the exhibition floor plan

• Schedule meetings with target exhibitors in advance

• Attend relevant seminars and networking events

• Collect business cards and promotional materials

• Take photos (where permitted)

Step-by-Step Guide: Exhibit in Singapore as a Chinese Company (Open Booth)

Step 1: Select the Right Exhibition

Consider these factors when choosing an exhibition:

• Industry alignment: Does the exhibition target your industry and product category?

• Visitor profile: Who attends—buyers, distributors, end-users?

• Exhibition scale: Number of exhibitors, expected visitors

• Historical performance: Past exhibitor testimonials and results

• Timing: Align with your product launch or business calendar

For Chinese Exhibitors:
Some exhibitions have dedicated contacts for Mainland China exhibitors. For example, ITMA ASIA + CITME routes Mainland China exhibitors through China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA) at ctma@ctma.com.cn.

Official Resource:

• ITMA ASIA + CITME - How to Exhibit

Step 2: Download Exhibitor Prospectus and Regulations

Before applying:

1. Download the Exhibitor Brochure/Prospectus from the exhibition website

2. Review the General Regulations document carefully

3. Understand:

   • Booth types and sizes available

   • Pricing per square meter

   • What's included in each package

   • Important deadlines

   • Rules and restrictions

Step 3: Submit Exhibitor Application

Typical Application Process:

1. Complete Exhibitor Application Form with:

   • Company name (in English)

   • Company address in China

   • Business registration number (营业执照号)

   • Contact person details

   • Products/services to exhibit

   • Preferred booth size and location

2. Submit supporting documents:

   • Business license copy

   • Product catalogs

   • Company profile

3. Receive quotation/proforma invoice from organizer

Step 4: Select Booth Type and Location

Common Booth Types:

Location Considerations:

• Near entrance for high foot traffic

• Adjacent to major brands in your sector

• Close to seminar halls or networking areas

• Away from competitors (if preferred)

Step 5: Complete Payment

Standard Payment Terms:

• Deposit: 30-50% upon application approval

• Balance: 30-60 days before exhibition opening

• Late applications may require 100% upfront payment

Payment Methods:

• International bank transfer (TT)

• Credit card (some organizers)

• Through authorized local agents

Keep All Documentation:

• Payment receipts

• Booth confirmation letter

• Exhibitor manual

• Floor plan with assigned booth number

Step 6: Review Exhibitor Manual and Deadlines

The Exhibitor Manual contains critical information:

Step 7: Design and Build Your Booth

Options for Chinese Companies:

1. Use Exhibition-Appointed Contractor

   • Many exhibitions have official contractors familiar with venue regulations

   • Easier coordination and compliance

   • May be more expensive

2. Hire Singapore-Based Booth Builder

   • Examples: Zeno Exhibition, local design firms

   • Provide 3D design proposals

   • Handle all approvals and build-up

   • Recommend booking 6-9 months in advance for major shows

3. Work with China-Based Exhibition Company with Singapore Experience

   • Companies like 星易国际展览 (Xingyi International) have Singapore project experience

   • Can coordinate design in China and build in Singapore

   • Ensure they understand Singapore venue regulations

Design Considerations:

• Comply with fire safety and structural regulations

• Plan functional zones: display, reception, meeting, storage

• Include clear branding and product highlights

• Consider traffic flow and visitor experience

• Prepare bilingual materials (English essential, Chinese optional)

Essential Display Materials for Your Singapore Exhibition Booth

Creating a professional booth presence requires quality display materials. As a Chinese company exhibiting in Singapore, sourcing display materials locally ensures faster delivery, easier logistics, and local support during the exhibition.

Pull-Up Banner Stands

Pull-up banner stands are essential portable displays for any exhibition booth. They're perfect for:

• Product feature highlights

• Brand messaging at booth entrance

• Directional signage within your booth space

• Supplementary displays for larger booths

Recommended Products from Pullupstand.com:

Key Features:

• Tear-proof synthetic poster paper

• Professional matte lamination (anti-glare)

• Retractable aluminum mechanism

• Premium carrying case included

• 60-second tool-free setup

Pop-Up Backdrop Display Systems

For maximum visual impact, pop-up backdrop displays create commanding brand presence that captures attention across exhibition halls.

Recommended Products from Pullupstand.com:

Why Choose Pop-Up Backdrops:

• Tool-free assembly in 10-15 minutes

• Single-person setup capability

• Premium trolley case for transport

• High-resolution vibrant printing

• Reusable for multiple exhibitions

Brochure Stands and Holders

Professional brochure stands and DL brochure holders organize your marketing materials elegantly.

Additional Display Solutions

Why Source Display Materials in Singapore

Advantages for Chinese Exhibitors:

1. No Shipping Complications - Avoid customs delays and ATA Carnet requirements for display materials

2. Local Support - On-ground assistance if issues arise during setup

3. Fast Turnaround - Same-day and next-day printing available for urgent needs

4. Free Delivery - Direct delivery to exhibition venues (Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Expo, Suntec)

5. Professional Quality - High-resolution printing with Pantone color matching

6. Graphic Replacement Service - Update graphics while keeping the same hardware for future shows

Contact Pullupstand.com:

• Website: pullupstand.com

• Location: Oxley Bizhub, Singapore

• Services: Design consultation, same-day express printing, venue delivery

Shipping Exhibition Goods from China to Singapore

Understanding Singapore Customs for Exhibition Goods

Key Points:

• Singapore imposes 9% GST on imported goods

• 90% of goods are duty-free, but GST still applies

• Exhibition goods can be imported temporarily with GST/duty suspended

Official Resources:

• Singapore Customs - Import Procedures

• Singapore Customs - Temporary Import Scheme

Option 1: ATA Carnet for Temporary Import

The ATA Carnet is an international customs document allowing temporary, duty-free import of exhibition goods.

What is ATA Carnet?

• An international "passport for goods"

• Valid for temporary import up to 6 months

• No import permit required when using Carnet

• Must re-export goods within validity period

How to Obtain ATA Carnet (for Chinese Companies):

1. Apply through China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) or local Chamber of Commerce

2. Prepare:

   • Detailed goods list with descriptions

   • Commercial value of items

   • Passport details of person carrying/accompanying goods

3. Pay Carnet fee and security deposit

4. Receive Carnet document

At Singapore Entry:

1. Present Carnet and goods at checkpoint

2. Officer verifies and endorses Carnet

3. Goods cleared for temporary import

4. Container shipments will be sealed for customs supervision

At Re-Export:

1. Present Carnet and goods at exit checkpoint

2. Officer verifies and endorses for export

3. Return to China and close Carnet with issuing authority

Best For:

• Valuable samples, machinery, demonstration equipment

• Goods that must return to China after exhibition

• Avoiding GST payment upfront

Official Resource:

• Singapore Customs - ATA Carnet

Option 2: Use Official Exhibition Freight Forwarder

Most major exhibitions appoint official logistics partners who specialize in exhibition cargo:

Services Provided:

• Customs declaration and clearance

• Temporary import documentation

• Transportation to venue

• Delivery to your booth

• On-site handling

• Return shipment coordination

• Empty carton storage during show

Process:

1. Contact exhibition organizer for official freight forwarder details

2. Provide:

   • Packing list with HS codes

   • Commercial invoice (showing value)

   • Product descriptions

   • Disposal intentions (return, sell, gift)

3. Arrange pickup from China or receive shipping instructions

4. Forwarder handles Singapore customs clearance

5. Goods delivered to your booth before move-in deadline

Costs:

• ATA Carnet handling: approximately SGD 125 per Carnet

• Customs clearance fees

• Transportation and handling charges

• Storage fees (if applicable)

Option 3: Standard Freight (Sea/Air) with GST Payment

If goods will be sold or not returned, or if Carnet is not suitable:

Sea Freight from China to Singapore:

• Cost: USD 500-1,100 per container (20ft/40ft)

• Transit time: 5-10 days

• Best for: large/heavy machinery, bulk materials

Air Freight from China to Singapore:

• Cost: USD 1.5-6 per kg depending on weight

• Transit time: 2-3 days

• Best for: urgent shipments, valuable/fragile items

GST Payment:

• 9% GST payable on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)

• Paid at customs clearance

• Non-refundable for goods remaining in Singapore

What to Prepare for Shipping

Special Considerations

Controlled Goods:
Certain items require approval from Singapore Competent Authorities before import:

• Medical devices

• Food and beverages

• Chemicals and hazardous materials

• Telecommunications equipment

• Tobacco and alcohol (high duties apply)

Tip: Consult with the freight forwarder or exhibition organizer if your products fall into controlled categories.

Exhibition Venue Guide in Singapore

Singapore offers world-class venues for exhibitions of all scales.

Singapore Expo

Address: 1 Expo Drive, Singapore 486150
Website: singaporeexpo.com.sg

Key Features:

• Singapore's largest MICE venue

• Over 100,000 sqm of exhibition space

• 10 specialized halls

• 32 meeting rooms

• Excellent for large trade shows and industrial exhibitions

• Near Changi Airport (convenient for international exhibitors)

Booth Costs:

• Shell Scheme: SGD 400-600 per sqm

• Space Only: SGD 300-500 per sqm

Best For: Industrial exhibitions, large machinery shows, consumer expos

Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre (Sands Expo)

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Website: marinabaysands.com/sands-expo-convention-centre

Key Features:

• 120,000 sqm of meeting and exhibition space

• Premium location in Marina Bay

• LEED Platinum certified

• 250 function rooms

• Connected to luxury hotel and shopping mall

Booth Costs:

• Shell Scheme: SGD 500-800 per sqm

• Space Only: SGD 400-650 per sqm

Best For: Premium events, technology exhibitions, luxury brand showcases

Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre

Address: 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, Singapore 039593
Website: suntecsingapore.com

Key Features:

• 42,000+ sqm of flexible space

• Central location in Marina Bay precinct

• Column-free exhibition hall

• Advanced AV systems

• Walking distance to hotels, shopping, dining

Booth Costs:

• Shell Scheme: SGD 450-650 per sqm

• Space Only: SGD 350-550 per sqm

Best For: Business conferences, consumer shows, mid-scale exhibitions

Changi Exhibition Centre

Address: 9 Aviation Park Road, Singapore 498760
Website: singaporeairshow.com

Key Features:

• 100,000 sqm outdoor space

• 40,000 sqm indoor facilities

• Near Changi Airport

• Specialized for aviation and large equipment displays

Best For: Aviation shows (Singapore Airshow), automotive, outdoor demonstrations

Budget Planning: Exhibition Costs in Singapore

Comprehensive Budget Calculator

Display Material Budget Recommendations

For Small Booths (9-18 sqm):

• 2-3 Pull Up Stand Budget Series (SGD 190-285)

• 1 A-Frame Poster Stand (SGD 250)

• DL Brochure Holders (SGD 20-50)

• Estimated Total: SGD 460-585

For Medium Booths (36-54 sqm):

• 1 Basic Pop-Up Display Bundle (SGD 2,000)

• 3-4 Pull Up Stand Premium Series (SGD 330-440)

• 1 Revolving Brochure Stand (SGD 250)

• 1 Foamboard Standee (SGD 120)

• Estimated Total: SGD 2,700-2,810

For Large Booths (72+ sqm):

• 1 Premium Pop-Up Display Bundle (SGD 2,600)

• 1 Pop Up Stand Full Wrap Premium (SGD 3,300)

• 5-6 Pull Up Stand Deluxe Series (SGD 900-1,080)

• Multiple brochure stands and holders (SGD 500-800)

• Estimated Total: SGD 7,300-7,780

Cost-Saving Tips for Chinese Exhibitors

1. Book Early: Secure early-bird pricing (typically 10-20% discount)

2. Join National Pavilion: China pavilions at major shows offer shared costs

3. Shell Scheme First: For first-time exhibitors, shell scheme reduces design costs

4. Source Displays Locally: Order from Singapore suppliers like Pullupstand.com to avoid shipping display materials

5. Share Shipping: Consolidate shipments with other Chinese exhibitors

6. Off-Peak Hotels: Book hotels slightly further from venue for better rates

7. Reusable Displays: Invest in quality portable displays for multiple shows

Business Etiquette Tips for Chinese Exhibitors in Singapore

Singapore's multicultural environment (Chinese, Malay, Indian, Western) requires cultural sensitivity.

Key Etiquette Points

Punctuality:

• Arrive on time or slightly early for all meetings

• Lateness is considered disrespectful

Business Cards:

• Present and receive cards with both hands

• Read received cards carefully before putting away

• Never write on or fold business cards

Dress Code:

• Business casual to formal (depending on exhibition type)

• Conservative, professional attire recommended

• Avoid overly casual clothing (shorts, slippers, ripped jeans)

Communication:

• English is the primary business language

• Bilingual materials (English + Chinese) helpful but not essential

• Start with small talk before business discussions

• Use formal titles until invited otherwise

Relationship Building:

• Accept business meal invitations as relationship-building opportunities

• Give modest, appropriately wrapped gifts when appropriate

• Show genuine interest in visitors' needs

• Demonstrate commitment to the Singapore/ASEAN market

Post-Exhibition: Follow-Up and ROI Measurement

Immediate Post-Show Actions (Within 1 Week)

1. Organize Collected Contacts

   • Input business cards into CRM

   • Categorize leads by priority (hot, warm, cold)

   • Note specific interests discussed

2. Send Thank-You Communications

   • Email personalized thank-you messages

   • Attach relevant product information

   • Reference specific conversation points

3. Ship Remaining Goods

   • Coordinate with freight forwarder for return shipments

   • Ensure ATA Carnet properly endorsed for re-export

   • Dispose of giveaways/samples appropriately

ROI Measurement Framework

Long-Term Follow-Up (1-6 Months)

• Schedule product demonstrations

• Send seasonal greetings and company updates

• Invite to future exhibitions or events

• Track conversion from lead to customer

Checklist: Chinese Company Singapore Exhibition Preparation

6+ Months Before

•  Select target exhibition(s)

•  Download exhibitor prospectus and regulations

•  Submit exhibitor application

•  Pay deposit

•  Begin booth design planning

•  Apply for ATA Carnet (if needed)

3-4 Months Before

•  Finalize booth design

•  Submit floor plan and technical requirements

•  Order services (electricity, internet, furniture)

•  Book flights and accommodation

•  Order display materials from Pullupstand.com:

  •  Pull-up banners

  •  Pop-up backdrop

  •  Brochure stands

•  Prepare promotional materials and giveaways

1-2 Months Before

•  Confirm all payments complete

•  Apply for exhibitor badges/passes

•  Finalize shipping arrangements

•  Ship goods (sea freight)

•  Train booth staff on products and key messages

1-2 Weeks Before

•  Ship goods (air freight/courier)

•  Confirm booth build-up schedule

•  Submit SG Arrival Card

•  Print all necessary documents

•  Prepare contact list and meeting schedule

•  Confirm display material delivery to venue

At Exhibition

•  Arrive for move-in/build-up

•  Verify booth setup and functionality

•  Set up pull-up banners and displays

•  Conduct staff briefing

•  Attend exhibitor orientation (if offered)

•  Network actively during show days

•  Collect leads systematically

Post-Exhibition

•  Complete booth dismantling

•  Ensure goods properly re-exported

•  Close ATA Carnet

•  Send follow-up communications

•  Analyze results and plan improvements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do Chinese citizens need a visa for Singapore exhibitions?

No. Since February 9, 2024, Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports can enter Singapore visa-free for up to 30 days. This covers exhibition attendance as visitors or exhibitors. However, all travelers must submit the free SG Arrival Card within 3 days of arrival.

How much does a booth cost in Singapore exhibitions?

Booth costs vary by venue and type. Singapore Expo offers SGD 300-600/sqm for shell schemes; Marina Bay Sands commands premium pricing at SGD 500-800/sqm. A small 9-18 sqm booth typically costs SGD 5,000-10,000 for rental alone, with total exhibition investment ranging from SGD 16,000-36,000 including design, shipping, and travel.

How do I ship exhibition goods from China to Singapore?

Three main options: (1) ATA Carnet for temporary duty-free import of goods returning to China—apply through CCPIT; (2) Official exhibition freight forwarder handling customs and delivery to booth; (3) Standard freight with 9% GST payment for goods remaining in Singapore.

What is an ATA Carnet and do I need one?

An ATA Carnet is an international customs document allowing temporary duty-free import of exhibition goods. You need one if your goods (samples, machinery, displays) will return to China after the show. Apply through CCPIT or your local Chamber of Commerce before shipping.

How do I get an exhibition invitation letter?

Most exhibitions provide invitation letters upon registration. Complete visitor or exhibitor registration on the exhibition website, then select "Request Invitation Letter" or email the organizer with your passport details and company information.

Where can I get display materials for my booth in Singapore?

Pullupstand.com is Singapore's leading exhibition display specialist offering:

• Pull-up banner stands from SGD 95

• Pop-up backdrop displays from SGD 2,000

• Brochure stands and holders

• Free delivery to exhibition venues

• Same-day express printing available

What display materials do I need for a small booth?

For a 9-18 sqm booth, we recommend:

• 2-3 pull-up banner stands for product messaging

• 1 A-frame poster stand for entrance signage

• Brochure holders for literature display

Useful Links and Resources

Singapore Government Resources

• Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

• Singapore Customs

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

• Singapore Tourism Board - MICE

Exhibition Venues

• Singapore Expo

• Marina Bay Sands Expo

• Suntec Singapore

Exhibition Directories

• EventsEye - Singapore Trade Shows

• 10times - Singapore Events

Display Materials Partner

• Pullupstand.com - Singapore Exhibition Banners & Display Specialist

Author's Note: This guide is optimized for Chinese companies planning to exhibit in Singapore. For specific exhibitions, always verify current requirements directly with organizers, as regulations and procedures may change.