Engagement Letter for Singapore Tobacco Licence
- a22162
- Aug 2
- 6 min read
Engagement Letter for Singapore Tobacco Licence
This is an example engagement letter and should be adapted to your specific needs. It is advisable to have a professional review the final document.
Bestar Letterhead
[Date]
[Client Company Name]
[Client Company Address]
Attention: [Contact Person Name]
Subject: Engagement for Assistance with Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence Application in Singapore
Dear [Contact Person Name],
This letter confirms the agreement between Bestar Consulting Pte. Ltd. ("Bestar") and [Client Company Name] ("the Client") for Bestar to provide professional assistance with the application process for a Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence in Singapore.
1. Scope of Services
Bestar will provide the following services to the Client:
Consultation and Advice: Provide guidance on the regulatory requirements and eligibility criteria for obtaining a Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence from the HSA.
Document Preparation Assistance: Assist the Client in identifying, compiling, and reviewing necessary documentation required for the application, including but not limited to company registration documents, financial statements, business plans, and any other supporting documents.
Application Form Completion: Guide the Client in accurately completing the official application forms for the Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence.
Liaison with Authorities (as required): Act as a point of contact with HSA for inquiries related to the application, if explicitly authorized by the Client and within the scope of our services. This does not include representing the Client in legal proceedings or disputes.
Application Submission Guidance: Advise on the proper submission procedures for the application to HSA.
Status Monitoring (Advisory): Provide general advice on how to monitor the application status and communicate any significant updates from HSA that Bestar becomes aware of through general public information or direct communication from HSA (if authorized to receive such).
2. Exclusions
The following services are not included in this engagement:
Guaranteeing the approval of the Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence. The final decision rests solely with Singapore Customs.
Providing legal advice or acting as legal counsel.
Representing the Client in any disputes or appeals related to the application.
Undertaking any operational or business activities related to the Client's tobacco import and wholesale business.
Any costs, fees, or duties payable directly to HSA or other government agencies for the application or licence.
Any services not explicitly mentioned in Section 1.
3. Client's Responsibilities
The Client agrees to:
Provide Bestar with all necessary information, documents, and access to relevant personnel in a timely and accurate manner.
Ensure all information and documents provided are true, accurate, and complete.
Promptly review and approve any documents or forms prepared by Bestar on the Client's behalf.
Pay all fees as outlined in Section 4 of this letter.
Be responsible for the ultimate submission of the application and all related fees to HSA, unless explicitly agreed otherwise in writing.
Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and licensing requirements in Singapore.
4. Fees and Payment Terms
Our professional fees for the services outlined in Section 1 will be fixed fee.
Fixed Fee
A fixed fee of SGD 2,900 for the complete scope of services.
Payment Schedule:
Upon your confirmation of engagement, we will issue an invoice with our wiring instructions. Full payment of our service fee is required in advance due to the nature of the service. Please note that once the service commences, our service fee is non-refundable.
Disbursements/Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any direct out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Bestar on behalf of the Client (e.g., courier charges, printing costs) will be charged separately at cost, with prior notification and approval from the Client where significant.
All fees are exclusive of the official HSA fees.
5. Confidentiality
Bestar agrees to maintain the confidentiality of all non-public information provided by the Client during the course of this engagement, subject to legal and professional obligations.
6. Limitation of Liability
Bestar's liability for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of or in connection with this engagement shall be limited to the total fees paid by the Client to Bestar for the services rendered under this letter. Bestar shall not be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages.
7. Term and Termination
This engagement will commence on the date of mutual signing of this letter and will continue until the completion of the services outlined in Section 1.
This agreement cannot be terminated by either party, and all service fee is non-refundable.
8. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This engagement letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Singapore. Any dispute arising out of or in connection with this engagement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Singapore.
9. Entire Agreement
This letter constitutes the entire agreement between Bestar and the Client regarding the services described herein and supersedes all prior discussions, negotiations, and agreements, whether oral or written.
10. Acceptance
Please indicate your acceptance of these terms by signing and returning a copy of this letter. We look forward to assisting you with your Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence application.
Yours sincerely,
For and on behalf of Bestar Consulting Pte. Ltd.
[Signature]
[Your Name]
CEO
Accepted and Agreed by [Client Company Name]:
[Signature]
[Client Contact Person Name]
[Client Contact Person Title]
[Date]
How Bestar can Help
Engagement Letter for Singapore Tobacco Licence
Obtaining a Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence in Singapore is a complex process governed by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Given the strict regulations and the potential for severe penalties for non-compliance, engaging Bestar can significantly streamline the application and ensure compliance. Here's how Bestar can help:
1. Expert Guidance and Regulatory Knowledge:
Understanding Specific Requirements: The laws surrounding tobacco products in Singapore are stringent (e.g., the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act). Bestar is well-versed in these regulations, including the nuances between import/wholesale and retail licenses, which have different requirements. We can accurately interpret what is needed for your specific situation.
Eligibility Assessment: Before you even start the application, Bestar can assess your company's eligibility. This includes verifying your ACRA registration, the applicant's residency status (Singapore Citizen, PR, or valid FIN like EntrePass/Employment Pass), and the suitability of your proposed warehouse and office premises for storing tobacco products.
Staying Updated: Tobacco regulations, including those on standardized packaging, minimum legal age, and advertising prohibitions, can change. Bestar stays updated on the latest amendments, ensuring your application aligns with the most current requirements.
2. Document Preparation and Review:
Comprehensive Checklist: Bestar provides a clear and comprehensive checklist of all necessary documents. This prevents delays due to missing information.
Accurate Completion of Forms: The application forms, particularly on the HSA's PRISM e-service, require precise information. Bestar can guide you through completing these forms accurately, minimizing errors that could lead to rejection or delays.
Review of Supporting Documents: We can review your supporting documents (e.g., tenancy agreements, ACRA certificates, letters of authorization from manufacturers, tar and nicotine test results) to ensure they meet HSA's standards and are properly formatted (e.g., within file size limits). This is crucial as incomplete or incorrect submissions will be rejected.
Structuring Business Plans (if required): For import/wholesale activities, you might need to present aspects of your business plan. Bestar can help articulate this clearly and professionally.
3. Streamlined Application Process:
PRISM e-service Navigation: The application is primarily done online via the HSA's PRISM e-service. Bestar is familiar with this platform and can guide you through the submission process, including accessing it via Corppass and uploading documents.
Liaison with Authorities: While the client remains the applicant, Bestar can assist in liaising with HSA for inquiries related to the application. This can save time and ensure that communication with the authorities is effective.
Payment Guidance: We can advise on the various payment stages and methods (e.g., initial application fee, license fee upon approval, setting up GIRO for renewals).
4. Compliance and Ongoing Support:
Understanding Responsibilities: Beyond just getting the license, Bestar can educate you on your ongoing responsibilities as a licensee under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. This includes restrictions on advertising, proper storage, and notification requirements for new tobacco variants.
Avoiding Pitfalls: We can highlight common pitfalls or reasons for license rejection, helping you avoid them.
Renewals and Amendments: Bestar can also assist with future license renewals or amendments, ensuring continuous compliance.
In summary, engaging a professional service for a Singapore Tobacco Import and Wholesale Licence application provides:
Peace of mind: Knowing that your application is handled by experts reduces stress and the likelihood of errors.
Time-saving: Bestar can navigate the bureaucracy more efficiently, saving you valuable time.
Increased success rate: Our expertise significantly increases the chances of a successful application.
Risk mitigation: We help ensure compliance with stringent regulations, minimizing the risk of penalties or license revocation.
For a specialized and highly regulated area like tobacco import and wholesale, professional assistance is not just a convenience, but often a critical factor in a successful and compliant business operation in Singapore.
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