In accordance with its responsibilities under the Stockholm Convention, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) declared in January,2026, that starting on December 16, 2026, the production, import, and export of three distinct categories of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and related products would be prohibited nationwide.
The following compounds are specifically prohibited:
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Chlorpyrifos.
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Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) have a chlorination level of at least 45% chlorine by weight and a chain length of at least C14 but not more than C17.
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Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs) are substances that have a chain length of at least C9 but not more than C21, as well as their salts.
An overview
Singapore is a signatory to the Stockholm Convention, which seeks to restrict or outlaw the use and manufacturing of POPs. Although particular exemptions for specific purposes are allowed, the aforementioned chemicals were formally added to Annex A (the list for elimination) of the Convention at the Twelfth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention in 2025. On December 16, 2025, the notification of the pertinent changes was officially deposited. The terms of the Convention state that these revisions will become effective for all Parties on December 16, 2026, one year following the notification date.
Transitional Plans and Follow-Up Evaluation
According to the notice, companies that lawfully imported the aforementioned chemicals and related goods prior to the effective date (December 16, 2026) may continue to sell them after the prohibition goes into force.
Additionally, NEA is researching and evaluating whether Singaporean domestic industry might benefit from the specific-use exemptions outlined for certain chemicals in the Stockholm Convention. NEA has promised to provide more information in due time regarding any final exemptions that may apply locally.
Singapore has taken a major step toward improving chemical safety management and safeguarding the environment and public health with the implementation of this ban. It also shows the nation's determination to fully engage in and adhere to the Stockholm Convention. In order to ensure a seamless transition and complete compliance with the new regulatory standards, relevant industries and enterprises are recommended to closely monitor subsequent guidelines and make proactive adjustments to their operations and supply chains.
