The Singapore Food Authority (SFA) has issued a substantial fine of 36,000 Singapore dollars (US$27,326) against Viet-Sin Grocery, a Singaporean firm, for engaging in illegal activities related to the storage and importation of meat and seafood from Vietnam.
Established in 2020, Viet-Sin Grocery has repeatedly violated regulations governing cold store operations. The company has also been found guilty of unauthorized imports of various meat and seafood products from Vietnam.
On April 26, 2022, SFA officials uncovered an unlicensed cold store at Gambas Crescent containing 1,784 kg of meat, processed meat, and seafood. Another discovery was made on March 15, 2023, at Woodlands Close, where an unlicensed cold store held approximately 1,240 kg of similar products.
Enforcement officers recently identified around 37 kg of assorted meat products being distributed at a Viet-Sin operated grocery store in Woodlands. Investigations confirmed that these products were imported from Vietnam without valid licenses, and their origins were unverified.
Singaporean regulations mandate that food importers adhere to SFA standards and obtain the necessary licenses. Each imported batch must be declared and accompanied by a valid import license.
Violations related to illegal importation, processing of meat products from unlicensed sources, or the unlicensed sale of meat products can result in fines of up to 100,000 Singapore dollars and/or imprisonment for up to three years, depending on the severity of the offense.
The Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore is advising Vietnamese food exporters to stay informed about Singapore’s regulations on food safety, including labeling, additives, and incidental ingredients. They are also recommending the selection of reliable partners for business dealings.
It is noteworthy that Singapore classifies the import of milk, live animals, meat, and fish as “high risk,” subjecting these items to strict control by the SFA. Currently, the import of fresh eggs, live animals, raw oysters, and specific technical standards for Vietnamese dairy products are not permitted.
