Role of Government in Export Sales of Weapons and Ammunition by Singapore Technologies Land Systems

Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for Defence (a) what strategic role does the Government play in approving, restricting or advising Singapore Technologies Land Systems (formerly ST Kinetics) regarding export sales of weapons and ammunition to potential buyers; and (b) whether and how such decisions take into account risk factors such as the likelihood of such arms being used to commit war crimes or in violation of international law.

Under the Strategic Goods (Control) Act and Regulations, export of all weapons and ammunition from Singapore require an exit permit from the Singapore Customs. Exit permits will only be issued if such exports satisfy international obligations and commitments under the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and other agreements which Singapore has ratified. This includes preventing illicit trade in conventional arms, Weapons of Mass Destruction and related materials as well as prohibition of exports to named countries.