Medical Device Registration Process in Singapore

For medical device companies looking to enter the Singapore market, the registration process can be complex and time-consuming. However, it is a necessary step to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and bring products to market.

The medical device industry in Singapore has seen significant growth in recent years. The market is driven by a number of factors, including

the country’s favorable business environment,
strong intellectual property protection, and
growing demand for healthcare services.

This article provides an overview of the medical device registration process in Singapore, including

the regulatory framework,
the classification system, and
specific requirements for different types of devices.

By understanding the regulatory landscape and following the appropriate procedures, medical device companies can successfully navigate the registration process. They can also take advantage of the many opportunities available in the Singaporean market.

Medical device market in Singapore

A research firm reports that the medical device market in Singapore is expected to reach USD 1.7 billion by 2025. The market is projected to have a compound annual growth rate of 6.3% from 2020 to 2025.

The report also notes that the country has a well-established regulatory framework. Additionally, Singapore boasts a strong infrastructure for clinical trials and research, which makes it an attractive market for medical device companies.

Factors such as

an aging population,
a growing demand for healthcare services, and
the government’s efforts to position the country as a regional hub for healthcare innovation

are driving the growth of the medical device market in Singapore.

Singapore has several advantages for medical device companies, including a favorable business environment, strong intellectual property protection, and a highly skilled workforce.

Furthermore, the well-developed healthcare system in the country focuses on delivering high-quality care. It also emphasizes the adoption of new technologies, making it an ideal location for companies aiming to introduce new medical devices and solutions.

Overall, the dynamic medical device industry in Singapore is expected to offer opportunities for innovation and success to both local and international companies as the market continues to grow in the coming years.

Regulatory authority for medical devices in Singapore

The regulatory authority responsible for medical device registration in Singapore is the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). The HSA is a statutory board under the Ministry of Health that regulates health products, including medical devices, in Singapore.

The HSA ensures that all medical devices sold and used in Singapore are safe and effective for their intended use.
The agency evaluates medical devices based on their risk classification, and the requirements for registration.
The HSA designed its regulatory framework for medical devices with two primary objectives. The first objective is to provide manufacturers and importers with a streamlined and efficient registration process. The second objective is to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the devices through rigorous regulatory oversight.
The agency offers a range of services and resources to support medical device registration,
- including guidelines,
- workshops, and
- a dedicated online portal for submitting applications.

Medical device companies should be familiar with HSA’s regulatory requirements and work closely with the agency for successful product registration in Singapore.

If you would like to know how to register your generic drugs in Singapore, click here to learn more.

Medical device classification in Singapore

Authorities classify medical devices in Singapore into four risk-based classes based on the potential risk to the patient and the complexity of the device.

The classification system for medical devices in Singapore follows a similar approach to the one used by the Global Harmonization Task Force (GHTF) and the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF). This ensures consistency and alignment with international standards.

The four classes are:

Class	Risk
Class A	Low-risk devices, such as bandages, stethoscopes, and tongue depressors.
Class B	Low-to-moderate risk devices, such as syringes, thermometers, and surgical gloves.
Class C	Moderate-to-high-risk devices, such as surgical instruments, imaging equipment, and certain types of implants.
Class D	High-risk devices, such as pacemakers, heart valves, and other implantable devices.

The regulatory requirements for medical device registration in Singapore vary depending on the classification of the device. Generally, higher-risk devices require more extensive testing and documentation to demonstrate safety and effectiveness.

Medical device companies should refer to the Health Sciences Authority’s guidelines and regulations to determine the specific requirements for their devices based on the classification.

Requirements to register a medical device in Singapore

The requirements to register a medical device in Singapore vary depending on the classification of the device and the specific regulatory requirements.

In general, medical device companies must provide detailed technical documentation and clinical data to demonstrate the safety, effectiveness, and quality of their devices.

The following are some of the key requirements for medical device registration in Singapore:

Classification: Determine the classification of the medical device based on the level of risk to the patient and the complexity of the device.
Conformity assessment: Conduct a conformity assessment to ensure that the device complies with relevant safety and performance standards, such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.
Technical documentation: Prepare and submit technical documentation, including information on the design, manufacture, and performance of the device, as well as risk analysis and clinical data.
Labeling and instructions for use: Provide labeling and instructions for use that comply with regulatory requirements and are appropriate for the intended user.
Quality management system: Implement and maintain a quality management system that meets relevant standards and guidelines, such as ISO 13485.
Clinical evaluation: Conduct clinical evaluations and provide clinical data to support the safety and effectiveness of the device.
Post-market surveillance: Implement post-market surveillance to monitor the safety and performance of the device and report any adverse events to the regulatory authority.

Medical device companies should refer to the Health Sciences Authority’s guidelines and regulations for specific requirements for their devices based on the classification. It may also be helpful to work with a regulatory affairs specialist or consultant who is familiar with the registration process to ensure compliance and a successful outcome.

Steps to register a medical device in Singapore

To register a medical device in Singapore, you would need to follow these steps:

Determine the classification of your medical device according to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) guidelines.
Prepare your submission dossier, including technical documentation and information on the safety and effectiveness of your device.
Submit your application through the HSA’s online portal or by mail.
Wait for the HSA to review your submission and request any additional information or clarification if necessary.
The HSA will issue a registration certificate once they approve your submission.

It may be helpful to work with a consultant or regulatory affairs specialist who is familiar with the process to ensure a successful registration.

How to import medical devices into Singapore

The process to import medical devices into Singapore for marketing can be summarized in the following steps:

Determine regulatory requirements: Medical device importers should determine the regulatory requirements for their specific devices and obtain the necessary licenses and permits before importing.
Register the company: Importers should register their company with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and obtain a Unique Entity Number (UEN).
Apply for an importer’s license:
- Importers must apply for an importer’s license from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) before importing any medical devices.
- To complete the application process, you must provide information about the company, the intended use of the devices, and the devices to be imported.
Medical device manufacturers must obtain product registration with the HSA before marketing their devices in Singapore. The registration process involves providing technical documentation and clinical data to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the device.
Obtain a permit to import: Importers must obtain a permit to import medical devices from the HSA before importing any devices. The regulatory authority issues the permit after registering the devices and verifying that they meet all regulatory requirements.
Customs clearance: The importer must obtain customs clearance from Singapore Customs before the devices can be released for sale.
Post-market surveillance: Importers must implement post-market surveillance to monitor the safety and performance of the device and report any adverse events to the HSA.

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