Singapore Regulatory News

The National Environment Agency (NEA) of Singapore has launched a public consultation to seek feedback on the proposed regulation of Chlorpyrifos, Paraquat, and Paraquat salts in all concentrations an...

The National Environment Agency (NEA) of Singapore has launched a public consultation to seek feedback on the proposed regulation of Chlorpyrifos, Paraquat, and Paraquat salts in all concentrations and all preparation forms as hazardous substances under the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) and its related regulations. This consultation, open from February 27 to March 27, 2025, invites stakeholders to share their views on these proposed controls.

Background on Chlorpyrifos and Paraquat

Chlorpyrifos (CAS No 2921-88-2) is an organophosphate pesticide that is widely used to control various insect pests in agriculture. However, concerns have been raised about its persistence in the environment and potential adverse effects on human health. Similarly, Paraquat (CAS No 1910-42-5) is a herbicide known for its efficacy in weed control but poses significant toxicity risks if mishandled.

International Assessments and Recommendations

In September 2024, the Rotterdam Convention’s Chemical Review Committee (CRC) evaluated both Chlorpyrifos and Paraquat and determined that they met the criteria for inclusion in Annex III of the Convention under the pesticide category. This inclusion would subject these chemicals to the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure, thereby promoting shared responsibility for their international trade. Proposals to list these substances will be discussed at the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP-12) to the Rotterdam Convention, which will take place from April 28 to May 9, 2025.

In addition, the Stockholm Convention’s Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) identified Chlorpyrifos as a persistent organic pollutant (POP) in September 2024. The committee noted its high toxicity to aquatic invertebrates and potential adverse effects on mammals. As a result, the POPRC will recommend to the COP-12 of the Stockholm Convention that Chlorpyrifos be listed in Annex A with the aim of eliminating of its production and use, with specific exemptions for certain pest and crop control applications.

Proposed Regulatory Changes in Singapore

In line with these international developments, NEA proposes to regulate Chlorpyrifos, Paraquat, and Paraquat salts at all concentration levels and in all preparation forms as hazardous substances under the EPMA and the Environmental Protection and Management (Hazardous Substances) Regulations. Currently, these chemicals are regulated with certain exemptions based on concentration and preparation forms. The proposed amendments aim to remove these exclusions and list Chlorpyrifos separately as a specific hazardous substance, rather than grouping it under phosphorus compounds.

Under these proposed controls, activities involving these chemicals - including manufacture, import, export, purchase, sale, use, transport, and storage - would require a Hazardous Substances Licence or Permit from NEA. NEA plans to gazette these regulatory changes by May 2025, followed by a six-month transition period before they come into force in October 2025.

Call for Public Feedback

NEA is seeking feedback on the potential impacts of these proposed controls, the requirement for Prior Informed Consent for transboundary movements of these chemicals, and a potential future ban on Chlorpyrifos if adopted by the Stockholm Convention. Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to submit their feedback by March 27, 2025.

This consultation underscores Singapore's commitment to protecting the environment and public health by aligning its regulatory framework with international standards on hazardous substances.

In a significant move to enhance environmental safety, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has announced amendments to the Environmental Protection and Management Act 1999, specifically ...

In a significant move to enhance environmental safety, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has announced amendments to the Environmental Protection and Management Act 1999, specifically targeting hazardous substances. These amendments, which were published in the Government Gazette on January 31, 2025, will take effect from August 1, 2025.

New Restrictions on Stockholm Convention-listed Substances

The NEA has extended the list of hazardous substances to include:

• Long-Chain Perfluorocarboxylic Acids (LC-PFCAs): These synthetic chemicals (C9-C21) are highly persistent in the environment and pose potential health risks. LC-PFCAs were added to the Stockholm Convention’s list of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in 2023, requiring global action to eliminate their production and use.

• Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs): With chain lengths between C14 and C17, MCCPs are widely used in industrial applications, but have been classified as POPs under the Stockholm Convention due to their bioaccumulative and toxic properties.

Singapore’s decision to regulate these substances is in line with its commitment to international chemical safety standards and environmental protection. These amendments follow a public consultation held in 2023, during which stakeholders were invited to provide feedback on the proposed regulatory changes. More details on the consultation can be found here.

Revised Mercury Regulations

In a concerted effort to reduce mercury pollution, the NEA has updated the regulations on mercury and its compounds:

• Controlled Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE): Mercury content is now restricted to a maximum of 0.1% by weight in homogeneous materials within EEE.

• Batteries: The permitted mercury content is limited to 0.0005% by weight per cell, including button cells.

• Fluorescent Lamps: Specific limits have been set for mercury content of different types of lamps, such as circular and linear fluorescent lamps, in order to promote safer alternatives.

• Measuring Devices: Certain high-precision instruments containing mercury are exempted only if no suitable mercury-free alternatives are available.

These strong measures reflect Singapore's commitment to meeting international environmental standards and protecting public health.

Timeline for Implementation

All stakeholders, including manufacturers, importers, and users of the specified substances and products, are required to comply with the new regulations by August 1, 2025. This transition period will allow industry sufficient time to adapt to the updated standards and implement any necessary changes.

Detailed information can be found in the official publications here and here.

These proactive steps underscore Singapore's commitment to promoting a safer and more sustainable environment for all.

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced on 20 December 2024, that formaldehyde in paints will be banned under the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) from 1 January 20...

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced on 20 December 2024, that formaldehyde in paints will be banned under the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) from 1 January 2026. The measure aims to protect public health by limiting exposure to formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and respiratory irritant.

Key Restrictions

• Interior Paints: The import, manufacture, and sale of interior paints containing ≥ 0.01% w/w formaldehyde will be prohibited.

• Outdoor/Industrial Paints: Outdoor or industrial use paints containing ≥ 0.01% w/w formaldehyde must comply with mandatory labelling requirements.

• Export Exemption: Paints manufactured or imported for re-export are exempt but require a Hazardous Substance Licence.

Compliance and Enforcement

Manufacturers, importers, and suppliers must ensure compliance by 1 January 2026 to avoid penalties under the Environmental Protection and Management Act. Companies are advised to transition to formaldehyde-free alternatives and update product formulations accordingly. Importers and manufacturers must provide test reports on request to demonstrate formaldehyde content below 0.01% w/w. These reports should be from accredited laboratories recognized under the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA).

HS Codes and TradeNet Applications

From 1 January 2026, traders will be required to use designated HS and product codes when submitting import and export permit applications via TradeNet. All applications will be subject to the NEA approval process.

Next Steps for Companies

To comply with the upcoming regulation, industry stakeholders should:

• Reformulate products to meet the new limits.

• Ensure proper labelling of applicable products.

• Work with accredited laboratories to verify compliance.

For more details, including labelling requirements (Annex A), accepted test methods (Annex B), and relevant HS and product codes (Annex C), please refer to the official NEA document.

On 21 November 2024, the two-year grace period for cosmetic products to comply with the updated ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) ended. The updates were introduced during the 36th ASEAN Cosmetic Committ...

On 21 November 2024, the two-year grace period for cosmetic products to comply with the updated ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) ended. The updates were introduced during the 36th ASEAN Cosmetic Committee (ACC) meeting and its related sessions in November 2022. Products that do not meet the updated standards must be withdrawn immediately. The amendments reflect the ASEAN region’s approach to aligning with global safety standards and protecting the health of consumers in its 10 member states.

Key Updates to the ACD

• Annex II – List of substances which must not form part of the composition of cosmetic products

A consolidated list of 37 substances previously banned in the EU, has been added to Annex II of the ACD. These include entries from EU regulations (2019/831, 2019/1966, 2021/850, 2021/1902) that are not currently used in ASEAN countries. Specific compounds such as perboric acid, sodium perborate, boron compounds, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), and p-BMHCA have also been included in Annex II.

• Titanium Dioxide Regulation

Revised safety criteria for the use of titanium dioxide as a colouring agent (Annex IV) and as a UV filter (Annex VII) have been adopted as per EU standards.

• Salicylic Acid Regulation

New limits have been introduced for salicylic acid in the Restricted Substance List (Annexes III) and in the Preservatives list (Annex VI), used in body creams, lotions, and other specific applications.

Implications for Industry

Cosmetic manufacturers, traders, and distributors were granted a two-year grace period to reformulate, test and phase out non-compliant products. With the end of this period concluded, compliance is now mandatory, ensuring that products meet updated safety requirements.

Detailed guidelines for compliance can be found here.

On 12 November 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced regulatory updates for Dechlorane Plus and UV-328, in line with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants...

On 12 November 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced regulatory updates for Dechlorane Plus and UV-328, in line with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The manufacture, import, and export of these substances, as well as products containing them will be prohibited from 26 February 2025, except for certain exempted uses. 

In a previous circular issued on 6 May 2024, the NEA informed stakeholders about the elimination of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention. The circular outlined the phase-out schedule and urged stakeholders to prepare for the phase-out of these substances by the specified deadline.

Exemptions to Meet Critical Industry Needs

In recognition of industry feedback regarding the critical role of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328 in certain specific applications, the NEA has approved exemptions for applications in medical devices, aerospace, defence, motor vehicles and industrial machinery, among others. These exemptions which are detailed in Annex I of the update, will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis on the availability of viable alternatives, with stakeholder consultations taking place during the reviews. 

Trade Requirements for Controlled Substances

To ensure smooth implementation and compliance with the forthcoming regulations, the NEA has specified clear trade requirements for the import and export of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328. These measures are designed to enhance monitoring and facilitate proper reporting of controlled substances. The following applies:

- Specific Harmonized System (HS) and Product Codes listed in Annex II of the update must be used for all TradeNet® permit applications. 

- Permits will require approval from NEA’s Chemical Control and Management Department (CCMD). 

Additional Resources and Support

For detailed information on the management of hazardous substances in Singapore, please visit NEA’s hazardous substances page here. 

This regulatory update reflects Singapore’s commitment to international environmental standards while meeting the needs  of industry. 

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has launched a public consultation on the proposed control of six mercury-added products as hazardous substances. This consultation is part of efforts t...

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has launched a public consultation on the proposed control of six mercury-added products as hazardous substances. This consultation is part of efforts to comply with its international obligations under the Minamata Convention. The consultation period runs from 19 August 2024 to 19 September 2024.

Background on the Minamata Convention

As a Party to the Minamata Convention, Singapore is committed to protecting human health and the environment from mercury emissions. NEA, as the Competent Authority for this Convention, regulates mercury-added products to ensure that the country meets its international obligations.

Proposed Restrictions on Mercury-Added Products

NEA intends to phase out six mercury-added products based on decisions made at the fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-5) in November 2023. The manufacture, import and export of certain fluorescent lamps will be prohibited by 1 January 2027 and 1 January 2028, depending on the product type.

Timeline for the Prohibition

From 1 January 2027, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) above 30 watts and certain linear and non-linear fluorescent lamps will be prohibited. By 1 January 2028, the restrictions will be extended to triband phosphor non-linear and linear fluorescent lamps. The legislative amendments are expected by 2026, with a two-year transition period before enforcement.

Call for Feedback

NEA is inviting public feedback on the proposal, requesting clear and concise comments with supporting examples or data. Responses can be submitted via an online form or by email by 19 September 2024. Feedback will be reviewed and taken into account when finagling the regulatory measures.

To take part in the consultation, visit the NEA’s online form or send feedback to the email provided. Full details of the proposaland submission guidelines are available on the NEA website here.

On 16 August 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of the country's proposed amendments to its Environmental Protection and Management A...

On 16 August 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of the country's proposed amendments to its Environmental Protection and Management Act: Environmental Protection and Management Act (Amendment of Second Schedule) Order 2024. The amendment specifically targets the formaldehyde content of paints. The amendments are being introduced by NEA to protect public health and to comply with international standards.

Controlling Formaldehyde in Paints

The proposed regulations cover a wide range of paints and varnishes, particularly those used on ship hulls and in other industrial applications. The products to be regulated are identified by their HS headings, including anti-corrosive paints and solutions in both aqueous and non-aqueous media.

NEA focuses on the regulation of formaldehyde, a hazardous chemical known for its carcinogenic properties. Once the new regulations come into force, interior paints containing 0.01% or more formaldehyde by weight will be prohibited for import, manufacture or sale in Singapore, unless specifically intended for export or re-export. Labelling will be required for outdoor or industrial paints with the same formaldehyde content, although these restrictions will not apply to products imported or manufactured for export or re-export purposes.

Testing and Compliance

Importers and manufacturers of interior paints must be prepared to provide test reports demonstrating that the formaldehyde content of their products falls below the 0.01% threshold. These tests must be carried out by accredited laboratories recognised under international agreements, such as the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA).

Health and Safety Objectives

The regulation of formaldehyde aims to reduce health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the chemical, which has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Class 1 carcinogen. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to respiratory problems and an increased risk of certain cancers. By setting these new limits, Singapore seeks to improve the protection of public health.

Implementation Timeline

Singapore plans to adopt the amendments in January 2025, with an effective date of January 2026. Stakeholders are invited to submit comments within 60 days of the notification date.