Singaporean firm fined for illegally trading Vietnamese food

Established in Singapore in 2020, Viet-Sin Grocery has been found in violation of regulations concerning cold store operations three times, along with unauthorized imports of various meat and seafood products from Vietnam.

On April 26, 2022, SFA officials discovered an unlicensed cold store at Gambas Crescent containing 1,784 kg of meat, processed meat, and seafood. A subsequent discovery was made on March 15, 2023, at Woodlands Close, where another unlicensed cold store held approximately 1,240 kg of similar products.

Photos of illegally imported meat, processed meat and seafood products seized in unlicensed cold stores at Gambas Crescent and Woodlands Close. Screenshot of SFA’s announcement

Enforcement officers recently also found around 37 kg of assorted meat products being distributed at a Viet-Sin operated grocery store in Woodlands.

Investigations confirmed 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 involving illegal importation, processing of meat products from unlicensed sources, or unlicensed sale of meat products can attract fines 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 advises Vietnamese food exporters to stay informed about Singapore’s regulations on food safety, including labeling, additives, and incidental ingredients. They also recommend choosing reliable partners for business dealings.

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.