Over 2 tonnes of illegally imported food from Vietnam seized in raid of Sembawang warehouse

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) seized about 2.2 tonnes of illegally imported food from Vietnam, following a raid at an old industrial building in Senoko, which is in Sembawang.

On Thursday (April 13), SFA officers found large quantities of processed and raw meat and seafood, including frozen pork, beef, chicken, fish and frog, all of which had been illegally imported from unapproved sources and without a valid licence.

A female permanent resident was also found operating the warehouse, part of which was also used as an unlicensed cold store with seven chest freezers and two chillers.

Besides food, 470 bottles of alcohol, and an assortment of medicines was also found. These were referred to Singapore Customs and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) respectively.

SFA, Singapore Customs, and HSA are following up with further investigations.

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 by 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 of 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.

All cold stores for meat and seafood products must be licensed and are required to meet SFA’s requirements and food safety standards.

Offenders who store meat and/or seafood products in unlicensed facilities shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.