Covid-19 May Place Strain On Singapore’s Food Supply Chain
The Covid-19 pandemic has hurt international economies on an unprecedented scale.
With lockdowns and stay-home advisories issued across the world, production of many goods has fallen, as well as demand for supplies.
As a result, some global supply chains have taken a hit, with both excesses and shortages of different goods.
Given that Singapore depends on imports for most of our food and essentials, we may face challenges with these supply chains being disrupted.
On Monday (20 Apr) Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Finance Heng Swee Keat assured Singaporeans that the government is doing all it can to ensure that our country’s needs are satisfied.
This includes bringing forward the “30 by 30” plan, in which Singapore will producs 30% of its food supply by 2030.
Collaboration with other countries
DPM Heng spoke of Singapore’s new collaborative efforts to keep supply chains going through the Covid-19 outbreak.
One of the countries we’re working with is New Zealand — they’re providing fresh produce and medical supplies to see us through the Covid-19 battle.
Minister of Trade Chan Chun Sing went into further detail on the agreement last Wednesday (15 Apr).
Task force to move “30 by 30” plan forward
In addition to keeping supply chains going, DPM Heng shared the government’s plans to bring forward the “30 by 30” self-sustainability plan.
The “30 by 30” plan involves Singapore supplying 30% of the food we consume by 2030. Given the turn of events and difficulties with supply chains now, the plan is being brought forward.
Heading the task force overseeing this will be Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Masagos Zulkifli.
The agricultural and food industries will be receiving grants – announced in the Resilience Budget – to help them boost production as well.
Support local producers and reduce food waste
In his post, DPM Heng called on Singaporeans to support the government’s efforts by buying more local produce.
He emphasised that this is a long-term effort, and will require Singaporeans’ contributions to see it through effectively.
Along with supporting more local businesses, Singaporeans should also reduce food waste as far as possible too.
Although our food supply isn’t at risk now, we shouldn’t take the security for granted. Food is a precious commodity after all.
Featured image adapted from Sky Greens.
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