MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of Singapore

Per capita daily domestic waste decreased by more than 20 per cent over the past decade; per billion dollar GDP daily non-domestic waste decreased by more 30 per cent over the same period. The recycling rate continues to hover around 50 per cent. 

Singapore, 23 July 2025 – Singapore continued to see a decrease in waste generation rate in 2024. The daily domestic waste generated per capita decreased from 0.88 kg in 2023 to 0.85 kg in 2024. The daily non-domestic waste  generated per billion dollar Gross Domestic Product (GDP) decreased from around 25 tonnes in 2023 to around 23 tonnes in 2024. This reflects the sustained reduction and reuse efforts by households and businesses in 2024.

Per capita and per billion dollar GDP waste generated decreased in past decade

2          Over the past decade, daily domestic waste generated per capita decreased by more than 20 per cent, and daily non-domestic waste generated per billion dollar GDP decreased by more than 30 per cent.

Fig. 1. Chart on the daily domestic waste generated per capita from 2014 to 2024.

Fig. 2. Chart on the daily non-domestic waste generated per billion dollar GDP from 2014 to 2024.

Recycling rate continues to hover at around 50 per cent

3          Overall recycling rate continues to hover at around 50 per cent (refer to Table 1 in  Annex). The recycling rate of paper/cardboard, food, and plastics remained similar. The slight reduction in recycling rate is driven largely by the reduction in the amount of Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste (by 122,000 tonnes) and used slag (by 63,000 tonnes) generated, which are almost completely recycled. This resulted in a corresponding reduction in overall recycling volume. Additionally, there was a reduction in the amount of wood waste recycled, by 49,000 tonnes, due to a short-term reduction in wood waste processing capacity in 2024 as a result of the closure of one biomass plant and prolonged maintenance of another.

10-year Recycling Trends

4          Over the past decade, the recycling rate dropped from 60 per cent in 2014 to 50 per cent in 2024 (refer to Table 2 in Annex). This is driven by two factors.

a.     There was a 44 per cent and 69 per cent decrease in the volume of C&D waste and used slag generation, respectively. As C&D waste and used slag are almost fully recycled, the decrease in volume generated and consequently recycled led to a significant reduction (7 percentage points) in the overall recycling rate (refer to Chart 1 and Chart 2 in Annex). This is due to the reduction in C&D waste volume generated from demolition projects in recent years, while the lower amount of used slag generated is due to a reduction in steel smelting activities in Singapore. 

b.     The amount of paper/cardboard waste generated has been similar between 2014 and 2024, although paper waste generated had been on a downtrend from 2014 to 2019, before rising again post-2019 driven in part by e-commerce packaging. However, there has been a steep reduction in the paper recycling rate, from 52 per cent to 32 per cent (refer to Chart 3 in Annex). The decline is driven by factors such as the cost of collecting and freight as well as commodity prices.

Upcoming efforts to improve recycling of key waste streams

5          NEA will continue to partner the community and businesses to encourage the reduction of waste generated and to increase recycling efforts. Our efforts will be focused on food, paper, and plastics as these make up the largest amount of waste that is not recycled.

a.     The recycling rate for food waste increased from 13 per cent in 2014 to 18 per cent in 2024. To drive the reduction and recycling of food waste, all new large commercial and industrial food waste generators have been required since March 2024 to segregate, treat and report their food waste. In addition, we will progressively extend these requirements to existing large commercial and industrial food waste generators in tandem when the Food Waste Treatment Facility becomes operational, as we progressively complete the Integrated Waste Management Facility (IWMF) from 2027 onwards.

b.     To encourage reduction in paper/cardboard waste and improve recycling rates, NEA supported the development of a set of Guidelines on Sustainable E-commerce Packaging in March 2025. The guidelines offer practical 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) strategies tailored to common types of e-commerce packaging, including cardboard boxes. Furthermore, NEA is looking to strengthen support for paper recycling, working together with waste collectors, recycling companies, and the community.

c.     We will also increase plastic recycling through initiatives such as the beverage container return scheme, which will take effect next year. Under the scheme, a 10-cent deposit will be fully refunded when consumers return the empty beverage containers at designated return points such as reverse vending machines. The scheme will aggregate clean and high-quality plastic recyclables, which can be made into new products. NEA is working with the licensed scheme operator, Beverage Container Return Scheme Ltd. (BCRS Ltd.) on the return point network and deposit refund options to provide a convenient return and refund journey for consumers, when the scheme rolls out on 1 April 2026.

Waste Disposed of

6          Our combined commitment to reducing the amount of waste generated and improving recycling efforts is reflected in the waste disposed of at our waste-to-energy plants and Semakau Landfill. While the waste disposal rate has similarly trended downwards in the last decade, the total amount of waste disposed of has increased from 3.04 million tonnes in 2014 to 3.33 million tonnes in 2024. This is due to the recycling amount declining faster than the total amount of waste generated. Hence, the net effect is an increase in the total amount of waste disposed of. When everyone plays their part to reduce, reuse, and recycle, we avoid sending waste for disposal, thus reducing our environmental footprint and extending the lifespan of Semakau Landfill.

7          The latest waste and recycling statistics can be accessed at go.gov.sg/waste-statistics-and-overall-recycling.

 

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[1] Domestic waste is waste collected from households and trade premises (e.g., shophouses, educational institutions, petrol stations, hawker centres and places of worship).

[2] Non-domestic waste is waste generated at industrial and commercial premises.

 

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Source: Republic of China Taiwan

To thank customers for their longstanding and continued support, Taisugar Gas Stations are launching the “Fuel Up for Strength” mid-year appreciation campaign. From July 15 to August 5, customers who refuel 30 liters of gasoline or 50 liters of diesel (for both general customers and members) at any Taisugar Gas Station nationwide will receive one bottle of Taisugar Glucosamine Plus. The more you refuel, the more you receive-don’t miss the chance to give your car a full tank and give your body a boost!

According to Taisugar, this year’s event combines fuel service with health promotion, not only as a token of appreciation for long-term customer loyalty but also to highlight the company’s commitment to driving safety and public well-being. For over 20 years, Taisugar Gas Stations have used premium CPC fuel, rigorously maintaining fuel quality through regular sediment removal, filter replacement, moisture and octane testing, and volume calibration to ensure clean and stable fuel for a smooth, safe journey.

Beyond refueling services, Taisugar Gas Stations are closely connected with everyday life. In support of the net-zero emissions policy, Taisugar has actively expanded its electric vehicle infrastructure, including installing EV charging stations and 69 electric scooter battery swap stations, encouraging the public to embrace low-carbon transportation. Stations also offer a selection of Taisugar household products for added convenience and have upgraded to accept a range of mobile payment systems, including CPC Pay, LINE Pay, iPASS MONEY, JKO Pay, PX Pay Plus, and Taiwan Pay, to meet the diverse needs of modern consumers.

This campaign’s featured gift, Taisugar Glucosamine Plus, is a health supplement developed by Taisugar’s Biotechnology Division. It contains chondroitin, collagen, and other essential nutrients, enhanced with a proprietary calcium delivery technology. Free of preservatives, artificial coloring, and Western pharmaceuticals, it offers a refreshing fruity taste and high bioavailability in liquid form, supporting joint flexibility and everyday mobility with zero burden on the body. With this special campaign, customers can fuel up their vehicles and energize their joints, making every trip safer and more powerful. Don’t miss out-visit your nearest Taisugar Gas Station and enjoy this limited-time mid-year bonus!

TSC News Contact Person:
Lin Hsin-Chih
Petroleum Business Devision, TSC
Contact Number: 886-6-632-8703 #802 / 886-939-919-530
Email:a62462@taisugar.com.tw

Tai Chih-Mou
Petroleum Business Devision, TSC
Contact Number: 886-6-632-8703 #101 / 886-988-721-867
Email:a63425@taisugar.com.tw

Petroleum Business Devision Customer Services Phone: 886-6-632-8703 #786 or 788

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law today congratulated Hong Kong’s Ryan Choi on winning a gold medal in the Men’s Foil Individual event at the 2025 Fencing World Championships.

 

Miss Law lauded the 27-year-old foil fencer for delivering an impressive performance in the competition, demonstrating Hong Kong athletes’ charm and perseverance.

 

“We are thrilled by his achievement in winning Hong Kong’s first ever gold medal in the Fencing World Championships.

 

“I hope the Hong Kong China fencing team will continue to strive for excellence. I have faith in them to perform spectacularly again in the 15th National Games to be held in November.”

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn today began a visit to Beijing by calling on the National Cultural Heritage Administration, the Ministry of Housing & Urban-Rural Development and the Ministry of Human Resources & Social Security.

This morning, Ms Linn called on National Cultural Heritage Administration Deputy Administrator Qiao Yunfei. They discussed the organisation of artefact exhibitions, youth exchange activities and talent training, as well as research on antiquities, nominations for World Heritage status, and the application of technology in heritage conservation.

Ms Linn then called on the Ministry of Housing & Urban-Rural Development, and briefed a team led by Vice Minister Qin Haixiang on developments in Hong Kong’s construction sector.

The two parties exchanged views on the application of technology to reduce construction costs and enhance productivity, and on promoting the establishment of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Construction Standards.

They also spoke about leveraging Hong Kong’s certification system and high degree of internationalism in the development of Modular Integrated Construction and other innovative construction technologies, and about the rehabilitation and redevelopment of old buildings.

Afterwards, Ms Linn and her delegation had lunch with Minister Ni Hong, and compared experiences of construction and urban development in both places.

In the afternoon, Ms Linn met Human Resources & Social Security Vice Minister Yu Jiadong to exchange views on talent development in the construction industry.

Topics discussed included integrating Hong Kong construction professionals into the Mainland’s “Professional Title” evaluation mechanism, mutual recognition of various professional qualifications between the Mainland and Hong Kong, formulating Greater Bay Area skill standards and implementing the “One Examination, Multiple Certification” arrangement for skilled technicians and workers in the construction sector.

Ms Linn thanked the Ministry of Housing & Urban-Rural Development and the Ministry of Human Resources & Social Security for their strong support of the long-term development of Hong Kong’s construction industry.

She also expressed hope that the construction and engineering sectors of the Mainland and Hong Kong can deepen exchanges and co-operation to jointly promote the high-quality development of the bay area’s construction industry, and to establish Hong Kong as an international infrastructure centre.

The development chief later joined participants on a study tour looking at national water infrastructure, culture and technology. Together, they visited the Tuancheng Lake Regulating Pond, a terminal on the middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project.

She also had dinner with study tour participants and heard about their experiences.  

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On July 7, Typhoon Danas passed through southern Taiwan leaving a trail of devastation. To reduce the burden on farmers and help them get through these difficult times, Taisugar is offering to waive rent for one to three months depending on the severity of the damage and proof of typhoon-related losses.

According to Taisugar, tenants in areas eligible for agricultural national disaster financial assistance and low-interest rates as announced by the Ministry of Agriculture should report their disaster-related losses to their local town hall/district office and submit proof to the Taisugar land management unit. Taisugar will then issue rent waivers based on the extent of crop damage. Those that suffered between 20% to 40% damage will have their rent waived for 1 month. Those with over 40% but less than 60% damage will have their rent waived for 2 months. Those with over 60% damage will have their rent waived for 3 months. Additional extensions may be negotiated in special circumstances. Rent paid in advance can be rolled over to the following year or used to extend their lease.

Taisugar added that if the tenant wishes to terminate their lease due to the impact of the disaster, any rent or bond paid in advance can be refunded without interest once both parties have agreed on a termination date. Taisugar is willing to do everything possible to stand with farmers and help them get through these difficult times.

TSC News Contact Person:
Chang Mu-Jung
Public Relations, Department of Secretariat, TSC
Contact Number: 886-6-337-8819 / 886-920-636-951
Email:a63449@taisugar.com.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Since March 1, 2024, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI) has designated boron content in “slime toys” as a mandatory inspection item. Both imported and domestically manufactured slime toys must undergo random sampling inspections according to national standards before being released from the production premises, imported or places on the market. Only products meeting the relevant regulations are allowed to be sold. To further ensure children’s safety, beginning August 1, 2025, the inspection approach for these products will change from Random-selected batch inspection to Batch-by-batch examination, thereby reinforcing control at the source.
BSMI explains that any products failing quality checks during market sampling will be required to be withdrawn and recalled for correction within a specified period in accordance with Article 59, Paragraph 1 of the Commodity Inspection Act. Any person who releases from production premises, exports, imports, or places on the market any commodity failing to meet inspection requirements shall be fined between NT$200,000 and NT$2,000,000 in accordance with Article 60, Paragraph 1 of the same Act. BSMI will continue to conduct market sampling and inspection programs for these toys. If non-compliance is detected, follow-up investigations will be carried out, including interviews and documentation, followed by enforcement actions in line with the Commodity Inspection Act, safeguarding consumer rights with a double protection mechanism.
BSMI emphasizes that all toys intended for children under the age of 14 are subject to mandatory inspection as announced. Regardless of whether the toys are imported or domestically produced, they must complete the inspection process and display the commodity inspection mark before being allowed on the domestic market. BSMI also advises consumers to pay attention to the following when purchasing and playing toys:
1.Purchase toys that label the Commodity Inspection Mark (Picture as attachment file ).
2.Check whether the toy has detailed labeling in Chinese, and carefully read the information regarding the appropriate age range, precautions, main ingredients or materials, warnings, and instructions for playing.
3.Choose toys that are appropriate for the child’s age. Do not give toys intended for older children to young children, as this may cause injury.
4.Stretchable slime toys may contain chemical substances such as borax. Prolonged contact and play can easily cause allergic dermatitis or allergic reactions. Therefore, playing time should be limited, and hands should be washed immediately after playing.

Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
Tel (O) +886-2343-1700#1211
Email: ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Outside Investigation Section of the Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted an operation codenamed “ShadowNet” since April this year and successfully neutralized a cross-boundary syndicate using false instruments to apply entry permits under the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS). A total of 18 persons were arrested, including the syndicate mastermind and its members.
 
After in-depth investigation and intelligence analysis, the ImmD discovered Mainlanders who were suspected to use false instruments to apply entry permits under the TTPS, and afterwards a cross-boundary syndicate was successfully identified. The syndicate was suspected to arrange Mainlanders to obtain Hong Kong entry permits using false instruments including forged academic qualifications, employment proof, foreign visas and immigration stamps. The syndicate attempted to charge the applicants and their dependants by continuously offering follow-up services, such as producing false local employment and salary records, after they had arrived Hong Kong.
 
Since April this year, five Hong Kong residents were arrested, including the mastermind and syndicate members, comprising four men and one woman, aged 42 to 56. In addition, 13 Mainlanders were arrested, including seven male and six female, aged from 27 to 47. The Mainlanders were suspected to have applied TTPS through the syndicate using false instruments. The syndicate mastermind and its core members were charged of “aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the making of a false statement for the purpose of obtaining an entry permit”, while the arrested Mainlanders were charged of “causing to be made a false statement for the purpose of obtaining an entry permit”. 
 
The syndicate had arranged at least 22 TTPS applications. For each application, including the initial fee and follow-up services, the syndicate could charge up to $2.5 million. The estimated transaction amount involved in the cases is about $55 million. The syndicate members were suspected to have used their personal and company bank accounts to carry out multiple dubious transactions. They were suspected to have committed the offence of “dealing with property known or believed to represent proceeds of an indictable offence” (commonly known as money laundering). The investigation is still ongoing, and more persons involved in the case may be arrested.
 
The ImmD will continue to closely scrutinize every visa and entry permit applications and stepping up inspections. The ImmD will continue to take resolute enforcement action to relevant offences on using false instruments to obtain entry permits. Any applications suspected of violating the Immigration Ordinance will be referred for further investigation. Since June 2024, the ImmD requires all applicants of Categories B and C under the TTPS and the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme to submit verification proof of academic qualifications issued by designated third-party credential verification organisations or the awarding institutions.
 
Under the laws of Hong Kong, any person who makes or causes to be made a false statement to an Immigration officer commits an offence. Offenders are liable to prosecution and to a maximum fine of $150,000 and imprisonment for 14 years. Furthermore, it is an offence to make, possess or use false instruments. Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment.
 
ImmD reiterates that should any person be found to have obtained their entry permit or residence status in Hong Kong by fraudulent means, such an entry permit or residence status will be declared invalid according to the laws of Hong Kong and they will be subject to criminal liability. They will also be subject to removal back to their place of origin.
 
ImmD reminds members of the public that money laundering is a serious offence. A person commits the offence of money laundering if he deals with any property, including money, which he knows or has reasonable grounds to believe to be proceeds of indictable offence. Offenders are liable upon conviction to the maximum penalty of a $5 million fine and 14-year imprisonment.