Singapore has announced a ban on domestic trade in elephant ivory.
The sale of elephant ivory and ivory products, and public display of the same for the purpose of sale will be prohibited in Singapore, with the ban coming into effect on on September 1, 2021, said a press release by National Parks. After this date, traders can donate their stock to institutions for educational purposes or keep them. National Parks said it will continue to work with them to ensure a smooth transition.
Once the ban comes into effect, those found to have offered ivory or ivory products for sale, or for public display for the purpose of sale, may be charged under the Endangered Species (Import & Export) Act. The Act carries a penalty of up to SGD 10,000 in fines per specimen, not exceeding SGD 100,000 in total and/or up to 12 months’ imprisonment upon conviction.
However, public display of elephant ivory or ivory products for educational or religious purposes will continue to be permitted. Similarly, those who own musical instruments and personal effects like bird cages that contain ivory may continue to use them in public.
