Two trucks were found to have about a tonne of illegally imported produce from Malaysia in a joint operation conducted by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) from Nov 6 to 7.

The operation at Woodlands Checkpoint targeted delivery trucks that typically transport produce intended for direct distribution to retailers and customers.

During the operation, ICA officers noticed discrepancies in the consignment transported by two trucks and referred them to SFA for further checks.

SFA found undeclared and under-declared produce such as tomato, spring onion, iceberg lettuce, cut cauliflower and sliced lemon imported by two importers in the two trucks.

All illegally imported produce were seized and SFA is following up with further investigations.

In Singapore, food can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit.

Offenders who illegally import fresh fruits and vegetables shall be liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years.

Those who illegally import processed fruits and vegetables shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and in the case of a subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.