More than 300kg of illegally imported food seized following multiple raids

More than 300kg of illegally imported food seized following multiple raids

1. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) seized about 300kg of illegally imported food from Thailand, following raids conducted on 24 Sep 2024 at five food retail establishments located at City Gate and Golden Mile Tower.


2. SFA officers detected the sale of illegally imported processed and raw meat, as well as insect products from Thailand at four of the establishments. These include chicken, beef, pork, and insects, such as beetles and snails. Two of the food retail establishments were also found to be operating without valid licences.


3. SFA is following up with further investigations.

More than 300 kg of illegal food imports were seized. (Photos: SFA)

4. Illegally imported food products of unknown sources can pose a food safety risk. In Singapore, food imports must meet SFA’s requirements. Food can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit. In addition, meat and its products can only be imported from accredited sources in approved countries that comply with Singapore’s food safety requirements. Offenders found in possession of meat and seafood products for the purpose of selling, which were imported without a valid import permit shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $50,000 and/or imprisonment of up to two years. In the case of a subsequent conviction, offenders shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $100,000 and/or imprisonment of up to three years.


5. Operation of unlicensed food establishments also poses a food safety risk. In Singapore, all food establishments must be licensed and are required to meet SFA’s requirements and food safety standards. Offenders who operate food establishments without a valid licence shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000. In the case of a subsequent conviction, offenders shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $20,000 and/or imprisonment of up to three months.


6. Members of the public with information on such illegal activities are requested to provide feedback via our online feedback form (www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback) with details for our follow-up investigations. All information will be kept strictly confidential.