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

Singapore's Parliament recently passed tougher laws to crack down on companies responsible for cross-border haze pollution. Under the amended Transboundary Haze Pollution Act (THPA), the maximum fine for such companies has been increased tenfold to S$20 million, from the previous S$2 million. Additionally, the maximum daily fine has been raised from S$100,000 to S$1 million.

These amendments aim to target entities that cause or contribute to land or forest fires that could potentially produce haze in Singapore. The changes also enhance Singapore's investigative capabilities, enabling authorities to trace business links and impose restrictions on supply chains. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu emphasized that these measures will strengthen Singapore's environmental standards and make it more difficult for companies involved in unlawful practices to profit financially.

Singapore remains committed to working with regional partners, including through its role as host of the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre and its upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2027. While the tougher penalties are welcomed by the Singapore Institute of International Affairs chairman Simon Tay, he cautioned that legislation alone is not enough to solve the transboundary haze problem.

He stressed the importance of regional cooperation, particularly with Indonesia and other neighboring countries, as well as the need for better prevention efforts to address climate change and reduce the risk of future haze incidents.