Govt empowered to restrict business dealings of errant entities in proposed THPA amendment
These proposed restrictions may include the supply or purchase of goods and services or the provision of loans and other financial support.
The Singapore government is set to enhance its efforts to combat haze pollution by proposing amendments to the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA). These proposed changes aim to empower the government to restrict the business dealings of entities found to be responsible for or linked to haze-inducing activities. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, introduced the Transboundary Haze Pollution (Amendment) Bill in parliament on Nov.
4, outlining the measures that will be taken to deter errant entities. The restrictions may include limitations on the supply or purchase of goods and services, as well as the provision of loans and other forms of support. Entities found guilty of violating these restrictions could face a maximum fine of S$1 million per contravention, with an additional fine of up to S$100,000 for each day the violation persists.
Minister Fu explained that the power to designate and impose restrictions is intended to impose economic consequences on those responsible or those with established connections to irresponsible burning. In addition to designating errant entities, the government will also introduce a power to put certain entities on notice, prohibiting them from engaging in business with those responsible for haze pollution.
This notice provision aims to prevent entities with relevant links to burning activities, such as large corporations in forestry and agriculture, from conducting business with those causing or contributing to haze pollution. Failure to comply with these notices without a reasonable excuse will be considered an offence. The proposed amendments also extend the maximum fine for entities causing or contributing to haze pollution, increasing it tenfold to S$1 million per day, with a cap of S$20 million in total.
This enhanced penalty aims to deter entities from engaging in practices that lead to haze pollution. The government will also be granted the power to publicly list entities that have not complied with notices or directions issued under the Act, including those required to appoint assessors. These measures are designed to strengthen due diligence and responsible business conduct throughout supply chains, ensuring that companies do not overlook irresponsible forestry and agricultural practices.
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