Around 280 kilograms of illegally imported produce seized

1. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has seized around 280kg of fresh and processed produce illegally imported from Malaysia.


2. On 12 and 13 September 2024, SFA and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) conducted a joint operation targeting delivery trucks which typically transport produce intended for direct distribution to retailers and customers. During the operation, ICA officers at Woodlands Checkpoint noticed discrepancies in the consignments transported by two trucks and referred them to SFA for further checks.


3. SFA found undeclared and under-declared produce such as long bean, bitter gourd, lady fingers, and peeled garlic imported by two importers in the two trucks.  All illegally imported produce were seized.
   


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

Truck drivers unloading imports for inspection (Photos: SFA)

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

All illegal imports are seized (Photos: SFA)

5. In Singapore, food imports must meet SFA’s requirements. Illegally imported produce and food products of unknown sources can pose a food safety risk. Food can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit. Illegally imported food products are of unknown sources and pose a food safety risk.


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. Offenders who illegally import processed fruits and vegetables shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and in the case of a subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000. 


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