Dear Editor-in-Chief,

We refer to the article “Singapour, Les Ambitions Du Futur Megaport”, published in the L’Usine Nouvelle on 5 May 2025 by Ms Pauline Bandelier.

2. The article contains several inaccuracies, including incorrect maritime statistics, and particularly the serious and baseless claim that Singapore had illegally imported sand from neighbouring countries.

3. Singapore imports sand on a commercial basis. Importers are expected to abide by all applicable laws and regulations of the source countries. These include sourcing from legally permissible areas, obtaining the proper export documentation and permits from the relevant authorities, and complying with local environmental regulations. Where applicable, our agencies will check that the necessary environmental related approvals from the source countries are in order, before contractors are allowed to commence sand imports.

4. This letter serves as the Singapore Government’s right of reply. We ask that L’Usine Nouvelle publish the letter in full.

Yours sincerely,

BENJAMIN WONG

DIRECTOR (STRATEGY & POLICY)

MARITIME AND PORT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE