Safeguards to Prevent Diversion of Restricted Goods to Countries Targeted by Export Controls

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) how does the Ministry ensure that export controls extend beyond direct exports to cover third-party transshipment risks; and (b) how does the Ministry assess whether current safeguards are sufficient to prevent the diversion of restricted goods to countries targeted by export controls.

On the Member's first query, I had addressed similar questions raised by members, at the Sitting on 18 February 2025. [Please refer to "Impact of US Export Controls on Singapore's Semi-conductor Industry and Ensuring Singapore-based Chip Companies Abide by New Rules to Safeguard Country's Business Reputation", Official Report, 18 February 2025, Vol 95, Issue 152, Oral Answers to Questions section.]

On the Member's second query about the adequacy of our current safeguards, Singapore Customs takes a risk-based approach to strike the right balance such that we can enforce our laws without impeding our port operations unnecessarily. This is done through cargo-targeting and inspections to ensure compliance with our laws. If a company or individual in Singapore is engaged in fraudulent or dishonest practices to evade export controls that it is subject to, Singapore Customs will investigate and take appropriate action in accordance with our laws.