The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has seized over 1.6 tonnes of vegetables illegally imported from Malaysia.              

2            On 6 and 7 September 2023, SFA and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) conducted a joint operation targeting vegetable delivery trucks which typically transport fresh and processed vegetables intended for direct distribution to retailers and customers. Two trucks were stopped by ICA officers at Woodlands Checkpoint and referred to SFA for checks.

3            SFA found more than 1.6 tonnes of undeclared and under-declared produce such as kailan, spring onion, pandan leaves, red chilli, carrots, tomatoes, long beans and beijing cabbage imported by two importers. All illegally imported vegetables were seized.

4            SFA is following up with further investigations and will not hesitate to take enforcement action.

Truck drivers unload the imports for inspection (Photo: SFA)

Produce is weighed and the total weight is tallied. (Photo: SFA)

Illegal imports are seized. (Photo: SFA)

5            In Singapore, food imports must meet SFA’s requirements. Fruits and vegetables can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit. Illegally imported vegetables are of unknown sources and can pose a food safety risk (e.g. if unregulated or high level of pesticides are used). The long-term ingestion of excessive pesticide residues through the consumption of vegetables that have been subjected to pesticide abuse could lead to adverse health effects.

6            Offenders who illegally import fresh fruits and vegetables shall be liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years.

7            Safeguarding Singapore’s borders remains a top priority for ICA. ICA will continue to conduct security checks to detect and deter illegal importation and smuggling attempts so as to keep Singapore safe. SFA will continue to safeguard food safety through our integrate food safety system, which includes strict import regulations and enforcement, and work closely with border control agencies to deter illegal import across our borders.

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY
8 SEPTEMBER 2023