Singapore’s Seafood Crossroads: Navigating Traceability and Sustainability at Jurong Fishery Port
Jurong Fishery Port, Singapore’s last remaining fishing terminal, bustles with activity every night. Between 2am and 5am, a flurry of forklift trucks and merchants converge, trading seafood primarily sourced from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. But beneath the surface of this vital supply chain lie growing concerns about traceability and the sustainability of the catch.
The Traceability Challenge: From Ocean to Plate
Despite the importance of Jurong Fishery Port to Singapore’s seafood supply – the nation consumes around 100,000 tonnes annually – pinpointing the exact origin of the fish remains a significant hurdle. Even as traders often know the port of import, determining the precise harvest source is rare. “When asked about harvest sources, seafood traders at Jurong Fishery Port typically offer vague answers such as “from the ocean” or simply “Indonesia”,” notes a recent study.
This lack of transparency makes it hard for consumers to make informed choices and for conservationists to assess the true impact of fishing practices. Experts emphasize that without robust traceability, claims of “sustainable” seafood are difficult to verify.
Shifting Species: Rays Rise as Shark Concerns Grow
Ongoing surveys at Jurong Fishery Port, conducted since 2017, reveal a concerning trend. While the trade in sharks has declined – likely due to increased awareness of shark-finning – the number of rays being traded has sharply increased. Both sharks and rays are particularly vulnerable to overexploitation due to their slow reproductive rates.
Researchers have observed the number of stingrays traded at Singapore’s fishery ports rise from 6,984 between 2017 and 2018, to 11,649 between 2024, and 2025. This shift highlights the need for broader conservation efforts that address multiple vulnerable species, not just those already in the spotlight.
The Role of Consumer Education and Initiatives Like Pasar Fish
Recognizing the need for greater awareness, groups like Pasar Fish are stepping in to bridge the knowledge gap. Founded in 2024 by former WWF-Singapore staff, Pasar Fish offers tours of Jurong Fishery Port for S$50, educating consumers about species identification, sourcing, and sustainability. They advise consumers to choose locally farmed Malibar snapper, orange-spotted grouper and fourfinger threadfin, and to consume longtail tuna and Spanish mackerel only occasionally.
Pasar Fish’s efforts have already reached an estimated 4,000 people through guides, workshops, and tours, demonstrating a growing public interest in responsible seafood consumption.
Climate Change and the Future of Singapore’s Seafood Supply
Beyond traceability and species-specific concerns, climate change is emerging as a major threat to the region’s fisheries. Traders at Jurong Fishery Port report a 10-15% decline in fish volumes over the past decade, attributing it to overfishing, warming seas, and increasingly frequent El Niño events.
One trader, planning to retire within two years, described the industry as “too cut-throat,” citing declining stocks and squeezed profit margins. While some believe that fish farming can buffer against these challenges, high costs and competition from imports currently limit its potential in Singapore.
Regulatory Framework and Government Response
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) oversees fishing activities under the Fisheries Act, banning destructive practices like trawling and the use of poisons. Though, the SFA’s jurisdiction primarily extends to within Singapore’s waters. The agency supports sustainable fisheries management practices in line with international obligations and national laws, but has not commented on efforts to improve practices beyond Singapore’s borders.
FAQ: Singapore’s Seafood Landscape
Q: Is seafood in Singapore sustainable?
A: It’s complicated. Traceability gaps make it difficult to verify sustainability claims. Consumers are advised to choose locally farmed options and be mindful of species at risk.
Q: What is Pasar Fish?
A: Pasar Fish is an education and research group that offers tours and resources to help consumers understand the seafood supply chain and make informed choices.
Q: What species should I avoid?
A: Experts recommend avoiding endangered species like sharks and rays entirely. Consumers should also be cautious about consuming species known to be overfished, such as certain types of Spanish mackerel.
Q: What is the SFA doing to address these issues?
A: The SFA regulates fishing activities within Singapore’s waters and oversees the import of fish and fish products, but its jurisdiction is limited beyond Singapore’s borders.
Did you know? Approximately one-third of the fish consumed in Singapore could come from unsustainable sources.
Pro Tip: Look for clear eyes, shiny scales, and bright colors when selecting fresh fish – indicators of quality and freshness.
Want to learn more about sustainable seafood choices? Explore the Pasar Fish Fish ID Guide and consider joining a tour of Jurong Fishery Port to witness the seafood supply chain firsthand.
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