Media reply to TNP on illegal hawking

Under the Environmental Public Health Act, the hawking of goods and food products in public spaces without a valid licence issued by SFA is not permitted. Unregulated street food hawking causes disamenities and poses a risk to public health. Unregulated street hawkers are transitory and cannot be traced if buyers face problems with their purchases. Food sold via illegal hawking may be unsafe, as such food items may not meet SFA’s food safety requirements. Through such modes of sales, these illegal street hawkers are in effect passing risks to the unsuspecting consumer to bear. 

Food safety is a joint responsibility. Members of the public who come across any suspected illegal hawking of goods and/or food are advised not to patronise them and make a report via our online feedback form with details for our follow-up investigations. SFA will take action against illegal hawking activities. Illegal hawkers in financial difficulties are referred to social service agencies for assistance.