Digital innovations enabling Singapore manufacturers fulfil export potential

A new app has been launched to help Singapore food firms export their products more easily and efficiently, while also helping prevent counterfeit goods.

The smart app, created by Enterprise Singapore and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), enables easier consolidation of online orders and checks on the authenticity of products purchased.

Launched at the Singapore Pavilion at Food & Hotel Asia (FHA) 2018, visitors at the show were able to use the app to scan barcodes of physical products to view more product details.

The app also provides automatic checks on quantities of product/s required to fill each shipping container through the shipping cubic metre calculation function, a track and trace function via the use of QR code and IT security technology.

Business interest

The two outfits also introduced an online version of the Singapore Pavilion on Alibaba.com. This enables the products to be showcased on a globally-recognised business-to-business platform where overseas buyers can browse Singapore products and indicate business interest.

Sunny Koh, deputy president of SMF and chairman of the F&B Industry Group, said: “The launch of the digital initiatives will further benefit our SMEs in reaching out to users overseas including South East Asia. The track and trace function also helps prevent counterfeit of goods. It is definitely a win-win situation for all sellers and buyers locally and globally, and the overall promotion of an authentic and quality Singapore brand.”

Currently, there are 103 Singapore companies with 871 products on board the app and SMF Alibaba.com platforms. SMF is working to bring in more food manufacturers on board and exploring the feasibility of extending the digital initiatives to other industries.