Introduction – Current State of Play: The Herbs Sector in Singapore
If you’re sourcing herbs in Singapore, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year. The market has seen major tremors—from policy pivots to supply chain disruptions and even climate-driven shortages. So, what’s changing?
To begin with, Singapore has officially dropped its ambitious “30-by-30” food self-sufficiency goal. Originally, the plan was to produce 30% of the country’s nutritional needs locally by 2030. But due to land constraints, soaring labor and energy costs, and financing hurdles, the government is shifting focus to stockpiling, diversifying imports, and building international partnerships. (Reuters)
From a trade standpoint, Singapore’s location and infrastructure are making it a critical hub, especially as global geopolitics heat up. However, supply chains are under pressure—with trade restrictions, inflation, and climate events like Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam disrupting herb sources such as cassia. (Nedspice)
On top of that, demand for top-tier, compliant herbs is soaring. Hospitals and high-end product manufacturers are willing to pay double for herbs that meet Chinese Pharmacopoeia (CP) standards. But here’s the catch—many herbs in circulation still fall short due to contamination, adulteration, and lack of traceability. (Mayway)
In a nutshell? The herbs market here isn’t just evolving—it’s transforming. And businesses that want to keep up need to stay informed, agile, and aligned with the latest shifts. That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in, offering live market insights, verified suppliers, and trend data to help businesses make better sourcing decisions.
Deep Dive – Market Movers: Recent Developments and Consequences
While 2025 hasn’t brought explosive new entries or tech shakeups in Singapore’s herbs sector, the market is far from stagnant.
Instead, it’s adapting. With local production scaling back due to the abandonment of the 30-by-30 target, more emphasis is being placed on import diversification. At the same time, Singapore is leaning into its strengths—logistics, infrastructure, and regulatory reliability—to cement its role as a global sourcing hub.
And while no new mega-investments or factories have been announced, the existing players are pivoting their strategies fast. For example, companies are racing to meet tighter quality and compliance standards, digitize their supply chains, and form deeper relationships with regional growers.
As we’ll see in the upcoming section, some suppliers are already rising to the top in this evolving landscape.
Top 10 Verified Herbs Suppliers in Singapore – Relevant in the Current Climate
Here are the Top 10 Herbs Suppliers in Singapore in 2025, verified by export history, certifications, global reach, and Freshdi buyer reviews. These companies are not only credible but also actively adapting to the new market dynamics.
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AK TRADERS INTERNATIONAL PTE LTD
Known for diverse spice and herb offerings, they’re recognized for consistent quality and strong export volumes. -
J.B. Rupa and Co., Pte. Ltd.
With decades in the trade, this supplier is lauded for meeting CP standards and reliable logistics. -
WEST ENGLAND COMMERCE & INTERNATIONAL TRADING CO PTE LTD
Their product traceability and certifications make them a top pick for health-sector clients. -
TLY Enterprise
A rising player focusing on organic herbs with a growing portfolio of compliance certifications. -
U2U Systems
Known for their mustard and dried herb exports, particularly in the organic segment. -
A.F. Hoosen & Sons Pte Ltd
A family-run business with a reputation for premium herbs and custom bulk orders. -
Cygnus Enterprises Pte Ltd.
Specializes in medicinal herbs, supplying hospitals and pharmaceutical labs. -
Yuan Sheng Tai Wild Mushroom Pte. Ltd.
Experts in fungus-based herbs like reishi and cordyceps, focusing on purity and source traceability. -
SILK CHAINS SINGAPORE PTE. LTD.
Offers a wide selection of pan-Asian herbs and spices, known for fast delivery and fulfillment. -
V V Doshi Trading Pte Ltd
Long-standing market player with deep supplier networks across Southeast Asia and India.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind, rankings fluctuate. Platforms like Freshdi provide dynamic leaderboards, such as “Supplier of the Month” or “Top Exporter of the Quarter,” based on RFQ (Request for Quote) activity, buyer ratings, and compliance metrics. It’s a good idea to keep checking Freshdi to see which suppliers are trending.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to The Prevailing Herbs Landscape in Singapore
With so many shifts happening, how should businesses respond? Let’s break it down.
Riding the Demand Wave
People are leaning into wellness like never before. Herbs for immunity, digestion, skin health—you name it, they’re flying off shelves. The Singapore market is riding this trend, with growth across herbal cosmetics, supplements, teas, and even pet care.
Regulations Are Tightening
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has lifted bans on several herbs, including those with berberine. Great news, right? But it also means stricter scrutiny. Businesses must ensure full compliance on labeling, safety, and claims. (Straits Times)
Local Production – Vertical Farming to the Rescue
Singapore’s limited land is pushing innovation. Companies like Growy are using high-tech vertical farms to produce herbs like basil and parsley indoors, year-round. (Straits Times) This can help reduce import dependency and ensure freshness.
Sourcing Strategies to Adopt
- Diversify Your Supply Base: Don’t rely on one region. Vietnam, India, and Indonesia are key herb exporters, but climate and policy issues can disrupt supply.
- Build Relationships with Verified Suppliers: Use platforms like Freshdi to vet suppliers, analyze RFQs, and monitor compliance.
- Invest in Quality Control: With recalls like the Coolibah Herbs salad mix in August 2025, it’s clear that testing and certifications are non-negotiable. (SFA)
Challenges to Watch
- Retail Setbacks: Holland & Barrett’s exit from Singapore shows that even big names can falter in the herbal retail space. (NutraIngredients)
- Consumer Skepticism: Education is key. Brands need to earn trust by being transparent about sourcing and efficacy.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Rapidly Evolving Market
Singapore’s herbs market in 2025 is a mixed bag of opportunity and complexity. From dropping local production goals to rising import reliance, and from vertical farming innovations to consumer-driven demand for quality—change is the only constant.
For businesses, here’s the bottom line:
- Stay updated with regulatory changes and import policies.
- Build relationships with verified, quality-focused suppliers.
- Use tools like Freshdi to track market dynamics, spot RFQ trends, and ensure you’re sourcing from suppliers that are agile and compliant.
- Prioritize product traceability and consumer trust.
In a fast-moving market like this, staying ahead means staying informed. And in 2025, the herbs game in Singapore isn’t about playing safe—it’s about playing smart.
Checklist for Buyers: Sourcing Herbs in Singapore (2025 Edition)
✅ Verify supplier certifications and CP compliance
✅ Diversify supply chains to mitigate risk
✅ Monitor policy updates from the HSA and SFA
✅ Use Freshdi to track RFQ shifts and supplier rankings
✅ Prioritize traceability and quality assurance
✅ Consider sourcing from local vertical farms
✅ Watch for global weather events affecting herb supply
Future Outlook: Where Is the Market Headed?
Looking ahead, expect more digitization, tech-driven farming, and stricter regulations in Singapore’s herbs market. Demand will continue to grow, but so will the need for transparency and quality.
Platforms like Freshdi are poised to become even more essential—helping buyers make fast, smart, and safe procurement decisions in an unpredictable global landscape.
FAQs
1. What herbs are in highest demand in Singapore in 2025?
Basil, parsley, turmeric, ginger, and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs like astragalus and goji berries are all seeing strong demand.
2. How can I ensure the herbs I source meet safety standards?
Work only with verified suppliers and request documentation for CP compliance, pesticide testing, and heavy metal screenings. Platforms like Freshdi help filter compliant suppliers.
3. What’s causing price hikes in the herbs market?
Supply chain issues, weather disruptions, and demand for high-quality, certified herbs are driving up prices.
4. Can I still source locally grown herbs in Singapore?
Yes, especially from vertical farming operations focusing on leafy herbs. However, volumes are limited compared to imports.
5. What makes Freshdi a reliable platform for sourcing herbs?
Freshdi offers real-time market insights, verified supplier lists, RFQ trends, and ranking systems so buyers can make informed decisions based on actual supplier performance.
References
- Reuters – Singapore drops 2030 food self-sufficiency goal
- Enterprise Singapore – Commodity Hub
- Mayway – Herb Supply Chain Update
- Nedspice – Market Update
- Straits Times – Vertical Farming in Changi
- Straits Times – Ban Lifted on Berberine Herbs
- SFA – Recall Notice
- NutraIngredients – Holland & Barrett Exit
- 6wresearch – Singapore Herbal Extract Market
