All wine consumed in Singapore is imported, with Australia and France holding 70% of the market between them. Wine was the biggest mover in the Singapore alcoholic beverages market in 2005, with a volume growth of 10% and value growth of 9% from 2004. About one third of imports are re-exported, mainly to Japan and Malaysia.

Singaporean consumers tend not to be driven by brand but are price-conscious. Red wine is the preferred beverage, accounting for 60% of sales, although white wine is more popular with women.

The perceived health benefits of red wine should continue to drive wine consumption. Recent years have seen a rise in attendances at wine appreciation courses, in turn creating more educated and astute wine consumers. These courses have also encourage Singaporeans to match wine with local food. 

Most alcoholic beverages are sold through on-trade channels such as bars, hotels and restaurants, but wine has been an exception in recent years, with off-trade sales accounting for 69% by volume and 53% by value in 2005. This is attributed largely to heavy discounting as part of competition between supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Alcohol is one of the few imports to which a duty is attached in Singapore, making it an expensive commodity.

Market Requirements

There are no specific wine standards or labelling requirements in Singapore, but wine products are subject to general food standards and labelling requirements. There are no customs duties on wine imports, but a hefty excise duty is calculated per litre of imported product.