A humble experiment with 10 vanilla vines in a Tampines HDB corridor has blossomed into a full-fledged enterprise spanning over 3,500 vanilla plants, supplying luxury hotels, top-tier restaurants, and everyday consumers. Meet Mireia Vanilla Singapore — the only company in the city-state managing the full vanilla production process, from cultivation to supply.
The Birth of Mireia Vanilla Singapore
Founded in 2019 by husband-and-wife duo Charles Santoso and Juwita Maha Ranni Setiawan, Mireia Vanilla began as a passion project aimed at promoting organic, chemical-free vanilla in Singapore. With backgrounds in real estate and finance, the couple had no prior experience in agriculture. However, driven by a desire to give their children healthier dessert alternatives and inspired by Setiawan’s exposure to gourmet vanilla while studying in Switzerland, they decided to grow their own vanilla at home.
From Corridor Garden to Commercial Plantation
The first vines were planted at their HDB flat. As the plants thrived, the couple realized the potential of local vanilla farming. Over time, they expanded operations and learned through trial, error, and collaboration with international vanilla farmers from Indonesia to Madagascar. They tailored soil compositions to suit Singapore’s climate and eventually developed successful growing and curing methods.
Today, Mireia cultivates five types of vanilla at their largest site in Science Park: Planifolia, Tahitian, Pompona, Odorata, and Aphyllas.
Collaborations with Singapore’s Top Hotels and Chefs
Mireia’s turning point came when they partnered with Gardens by the Bay in 2021 for a showcase during the venue’s anniversary event. This led to further collaborations with hotels like Shangri-La, Four Seasons, Fairmont, and The Fullerton Hotel. Mireia’s vanilla now features in a wide range of culinary creations — from desserts to cocktails and even main courses such as roast lamb and duck.
Their vanilla is also featured in the “La Vanilla” afternoon tea set at Conrad Singapore Marina Bay, where chefs use Mireia’s vanilla in both sweet and savoury dishes, including vanilla-infused scallops and tempura mushrooms.
Educating the Public on Real Vanilla
Mireia is not just a business but also an educational mission. The founders regularly hold workshops to teach Singaporeans the difference between synthetic and real vanilla. Many locals mistakenly believe vanilla is white due to artificial variants commonly found in stores.
“Real vanilla contains over 250 flavour notes,” said Santoso. “When people taste it, they often ask if we added cinnamon or ginger. But that’s the magic of natural vanilla.”
Overcoming Agricultural Challenges in an Urban Setting
Growing vanilla in Singapore is no small feat. Vanilla plants take up to eight years to mature from seed, and even cuttings require four to five years before yielding pods. Land rental costs are high, and limited space makes long-term farming difficult. Despite these hurdles, Mireia found success by partnering with institutions that offer unused spaces for planting.
Maintaining these urban farms requires daily dedication. The couple personally visits each site to check plant health, adjust vines, and remove weeds. Vanilla stems are fragile; a single break can set back growth by months.
Operating as a Two-Person Team
Despite their growing footprint, Mireia remains a two-person operation, occasionally supported by volunteers. “Agriculture is not a glamorous job,” said Setiawan. “It’s hard to find people in Singapore who are willing to get their hands dirty.”
High labour costs and a general preference for white-collar jobs also limit hiring options. Yet, the couple stays committed, citing genuine support from their clients and community as a key motivator.
What’s Next for Mireia Vanilla Singapore
Mireia is now focused on establishing a processing centre for its vanilla products. While they continue to search for suitable facilities in Singapore or abroad, they also aim to expand their local presence.
“We believe Singapore can and should be proud of its local produce,” said Setiawan. “There’s plenty of unused space in hospitals, schools, or industrial estates that could be repurposed for urban farming.”
Their goal is to make Singapore a regional leader in premium vanilla production, attracting both local and international interest in sustainable, farm-to-table practices.
Supporting Local Agriculture in Singapore
Mireia’s story challenges the perception that Singapore cannot support agricultural ventures. Through innovation, perseverance, and strategic partnerships, this couple has created a product that is as premium as it is local. Their journey serves as a reminder that with passion and persistence, even the smallest seed — or vine — can grow into something remarkable.
