Arklife Distributors Pte Ltd, an importer of processed food products, was fined $7,500 by the court today for the illegal import of processed food products.

2          On 25 June 2020, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the Jurong Scanning Station detected anomalies in the scanned images of a 20-foot container from Indonesia. The officers conducted further checks and found 15 pallets of illegally imported processed food products. The case was referred to the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) for subsequent investigation.

3          SFA’s investigation found more than 3 tonnes of illegally imported processed food products such as instant noodles, biscuits, beverages and various food seasonings. The illegal consignments were seized.

More than 3 tonnes of illegally imported processed food products detected. (Photo: SFA)

4          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. Illegally imported food products are of unknown sources and poses food safety risk.

5          Offenders who illegally import processed food 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.

6          The method of concealment involved in this case is a cause for concern as similar methods may be used by people with ill intent to smuggle security items into Singapore. ICA will continue to conduct security checks on passengers, goods and vehicles so as to safeguard Singapore’s security, and work closely with SFA to deter illegal food imports across our borders.  SFA will also continue to safeguard food safety through our integrated food safety system, which includes strict import regulations and enforcement. 

Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
Singapore Food Agency
24 March 2021