Singapore has officially lifted its 27-year ban on pig blood products, approving imports from Thailand’s Bangkhla Pig Slaughterhouse after stringent food safety checks. The products are expected to reach Singapore shelves within two months.
From ban to approval
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) announced approval for heat-treated pig blood products from Thailand, ending a ban imposed in 1999 following the Nipah virus outbreak. That outbreak killed an abattoir worker in Singapore and caused more than 100 deaths in Malaysia, prompting authorities to prohibit animal blood food products due to contamination risks.
Each consignment must carry a health certificate from Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development, certifying compliance with Singapore’s animal health and food safety standards. The approval was granted after detailed risk assessments and an onsite audit in mid-2025.
Thailand’s export breakthrough
Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development confirmed that Singapore’s approval followed inspections at slaughterhouses in Chachoengsao province. The audit verified compliance with Good Hygiene Practices and ‘Premium Quality & Safety’ standards.
The reopening of this trade route is projected to generate around USD 4.5 million in export value for Thailand’s livestock sector in 2026. Officials hailed the decision as a global benchmark for Thai food safety credentials and a significant boost for the country’s meat processing industry.
This development highlights growing regional cooperation in food trade in Southeast Asia. Thailand has long been a major supplier of poultry and pork to neighboring countries, and Singapore’s decision reinforces confidence in Thai livestock standards. It also signals opportunities for other Asean exporters to strengthen their role in supplying niche food products to Singapore’s diverse market
What it means for consumers
CP Foods will import the products, which undergo high-temperature treatment and pasteurization. Packaging resembles boxed tofu commonly found in local markets, making the items familiar to consumers. The products are expected to be available in Singapore within 1-2 months.