Singapore increases maximum fine tenfold to S$20M for companies causing transboundary haze

SINGAPORE: Companies responsible for cross-border haze pollution could face fines of up to S$20 million under tougher laws passed by Singapore’s Parliament on Nov 5.

The amendments to the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA) raise the maximum penalty tenfold, from S$2 million. The maximum daily fine also increases from S$100,000 to S$1 million.

The changes target entities that cause or contribute to land or forest fires that risk producing haze in Singapore. The new measures also strengthen Singapore’s ability to investigate businesses linked to such activities, The Malay Mail reported (Nov 5).

Authorities gain stronger powers to trace business links

The revised law gives investigators powers to trace commercial connections and impose restrictions across business arrangements and supply chains. It also removes legal barriers to enforcement in line with international law.

Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said the changes would strengthen Singapore’s environmental standards and make it harder for companies linked to unlawful practices to benefit financially.

The minister explained that Singapore wanted greater supply chain traceability and stronger action against businesses involved in unsustainable forestry and agricultural practices.

ASEAN cooperation is essential to tackling haze

Ms Fu said Singapore would continue working with regional partners, including through its role as host of the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre and its 2027 ASEAN Chairmanship.

Singapore Institute of International Affairs chairman Simon Tay also welcomed the tougher penalties, saying the revised law would give Singapore stronger legal means to act against errant companies.

However, Mr Tay cautioned that legislation alone couldn't solve the transboundary haze problem. He stressed that regional cooperation, particularly with Indonesia and neighbouring countries, is essential. Climate change also adds to the challenge of preventing future haze incidents.

Higher fines can make polluting activities more costly, but enforcement must follow. Companies must be held accountable, while regional partners work together to prevent fires before they send another blanket of haze across borders.

Read related: NEA, MinLaw: 7 members appointed to the Panel on Transboundary Haze to probe companies for the fires causing haze in Singapore