The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore has ramped up its efforts to combat the sale and distribution of illegal health products, seizing 970,707 units and removing 7,351 listings from local e-commerce and social media platforms in 2024. This initiative, involving targeted operations and collaborations with local and international agencies, aims to protect the public from potentially harmful products.
Codeine cough syrup accounted for 54% of the illegal products seized, followed by sexual enhancement medicines at 19%, sedatives at 18%, and other prescription medicines at 9%. A significant operation in May 2024 saw HSA and the Singapore Police Force dismantle an illegal cough syrup manufacturing setup in Geylang, seizing products worth S$130,000.
HSA’s collaboration with online platforms like Amazon Singapore, Carousell, and Shopee led to the removal of listings, with 37% marketing aesthetic enhancement products. The authority issued warnings to 2,868 online sellers and prosecuted 30 individuals for illegal sales, including Rasel Md, who was sentenced to 31 weeks in prison, and Peh Zhisheng Gabriel, fined S$266,500 for selling counterfeit cosmetics.
Public alerts were issued for 14 illegal products containing banned substances like sibutramine and potent steroids. Notably, three consumers were hospitalised due to adverse effects from these products. HSA continues to urge consumers to consult healthcare professionals before using health products and remains vigilant in its enforcement actions.
