29-3-2024 (SINGAPORE) The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) have successfully confiscated approximately 1.5 tonnes of fresh produce and processed food that was illegally imported from Malaysia. The joint operation took place on March 25 and March 26, with a focus on vegetable delivery lorries entering Singapore through the Woodlands Checkpoint.
The targeted lorries are typically responsible for transporting produce directly to retailers and customers, according to the agencies. During the operation, ICA officers detected inconsistencies in the transported goods of two lorries, leading them to refer the vehicles to SFA for further investigation.
Upon inspection, SFA discovered roughly 1.5 tonnes of undeclared and under-declared produce, including chilli padi, spring onion, brinjal, and peeled garlic. These items were brought into Singapore by three importers using the two lorries. As a result of the findings, all illegally imported produce was seized by the authorities.
Singapore has strict regulations regarding the importation of fruits and vegetables, which can only be carried out by licensed importers. Each consignment must be properly declared and accompanied by a valid import permit, as emphasized by the agencies in their joint statement.
Moreover, the statement highlighted the potential food safety risks associated with illegally imported vegetables, which often come from unknown sources. If, for instance, high levels of pesticides are used on such produce, it can pose a health hazard. SFA and ICA stated, “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.”
Those found guilty of illegally importing fresh fruits and vegetables can face fines of up to $10,000, a maximum prison term of three years, or both. For individuals convicted of illegally importing processed fruits and vegetables, fines of up to $1,000 can be imposed, with subsequent convictions potentially resulting in fines of up to $2,000.
