Maximum fine for haze offences to be raised to S$20 million under proposed amendment of THPA

Singapore's maximum fine for haze-related offenses is set to soar to S$20 million, a tenfold increase from the current cap of S$2 million, according to proposed amendments to the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA). This escalation, announced by Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu on November 4, aims to tackle the challenges posed by the Southeast Asian country's worst haze episode since 2015. The new daily fine for primary offenses will rise to S$1 million, also capped at S$20 million.

Fu highlighted the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to curb haze pollution, which can originate from overseas land or forest fires. The proposed changes will enable authorities to impose additional penalties based on the financial gains or losses resulting from the offense. Furthermore, a novel civil penalty framework will empower the National Environment Agency (NEA), in collaboration with the Public Prosecutor, to seek penalties of up to S$10 million through civil proceedings.

Interestingly, the amendments will broaden the scope of the THPA to include activities that cause or contribute to overseas fires potentially leading to haze in Singapore, even if the haze hasn't yet reached the nation's borders. This proactive approach will allow NEA to intervene before the haze impacts Singapore, based on factors such as the distance of the fires, the duration and intensity of the burning, and prevailing weather conditions.