Singapore’s food security is a critical aspect of its Total Defence, especially as a small, trade-dependent nation vulnerable to supply disruptions from climate change, disease outbreaks, and geopolitical events. Ensuring food security requires the collective effort of the industry, consumers, and the government.
Industry’s Role: The industry plays a crucial part by diversifying import sources and maintaining Business Continuity Plans (BCPs). For example, during the African Swine Fever outbreak in Indonesia, Singapore’s importers quickly sourced live pigs from Sarawak and chilled pork from various countries, stabilizing the pork supply. Egg importers have also incorporated BCPs since 2019, ensuring resilience by maintaining alternative sources.
Food Insecurity
Consumers’ Contribution: Consumers contribute by being adaptable in their food choices during supply disruptions. As part of the 2024 Total Defence Day activities, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), SATS, and the Ministry of Education (MOE) introduced Ready-To-Eat (RTE) meals to 50,000 students and teachers across 40 schools. These meals, which include ingredients from local farms, have a long shelf life and require minimal preparation, making them suitable for emergencies.
Government’s Vigilance: The SFA plays a vital role in supporting the industry to diversify import sources. For instance, during Malaysia’s ban on live chicken exports in May 2022, the SFA worked swiftly with the industry to source chilled and frozen chicken from countries like Australia, Thailand, the USA, and Brazil. In May 2023, Indonesia became a new source for live chicken imports, further enhancing Singapore’s food supply resilience.
The combined efforts of the industry, consumers, and the government are essential in maintaining Singapore’s food security and resilience against future crises.