Haze in 2026 estimated to cost Singapore S$2.32 billion, up 4% from 2015: experts
They attribute the rise to factors including a larger population and higher incomes and visitor spending
In 2026, Singapore's economy suffered a cost of S$2.32 billion due to the worst haze episode in over a decade, according to preliminary estimates from Nanyang Technological University and Singapore University of Social Sciences. This represents a 4% increase from the estimated S$1.83 billion cost in 2015, adjusted for September 2026 prices.
Despite fewer hazy days and lower average Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings, the larger population, higher incomes, and increased visitor spending contributed to the higher bill. The health burden, including treatment costs and the value of preventing illness and premature death, was also higher in 2026 compared to 2015. Additionally, tourism losses due to direct and indirect impacts were higher in 2026.
However, the cost was offset by lower household growth and shorter haze duration. The data emphasizes the need for funding prevention efforts and targeted protection measures, such as cleaner air solutions. While legal measures can address fire prevention, a "victim-pays" approach is suggested for affected countries to contribute to prevention costs.
Written by urgent.news from The Business Times - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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