Singapore will raise the maximum fine for the main offence under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act to SG$20 million from SG$2 million under proposed amendments following the country's most severe haze episode since 2015, according to the National Environment Agency press release.
The proposed amendments will allow courts to impose additional penalties. The changes will also allow authorities to identify entities and individuals suspected of breaking the law and restrict their business activities, including trade and access to loans or other financial support.
The amendments will expand the Act to cover conduct contributing to fires that pose a risk of haze pollution in Singapore, even if the haze has not reached the country. They will also introduce a civil penalty framework allowing NEA, with the Public Prosecutor's consent, to seek penalties of up to SG$10 million, NEA said.
