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Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry
3. Parliamentary replies

Oral reply to PQs on Businesses and sectors worst-hit by prolonged haze episodes

3 November 2026

Questions:

Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim: To ask the Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) (a) whether the Government is assessing revenue losses and additional operating costs incurred by businesses affected by the haze, particularly small businesses dependent on outdoor activity or footfall; and (b) whether temporary support will be provided, including rental relief and assistance with costs of protecting workers.

Ms Valerie Lee: To ask the Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) (a) whether the Ministry has identified sectors and businesses particularly vulnerable to prolonged haze episodes; and (b) what measures are being considered to help affected SMEs strengthen business continuity, adapt their operations, and minimise disruptions to their employees and customers during future haze episodes.

Oral Answer (to be attributed to Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Dr Tan See Leng

1.       Singapore experienced haze from 4 September to 25 October 2026, with air quality reaching the Unhealthy range on 33 days and the Very Unhealthy range on five days. 

2.       We understand that this has been challenging for smaller businesses, especially those reliant on outdoor activities and daily customer footfall, such as businesses in the Tourism, Construction and F&B sectors. This has also been raised in our engagements with the Trade Associations and Chambers (TACs). 

3.       However, haze episodes have been generally transient. We therefore do not intend to introduce additional haze-specific support measures for businesses at this point. Businesses have also adapted their operations to mitigate the impact. For example, some F&B businesses have offset reduced dine-in demand by shifting towards takeaway and delivery sales. 

4.       Businesses facing operational challenges can approach Enterprise Singapore's network of SME Centres for one-to-one business advisory services and guidance on relevant support schemes, or their respective TACs for sector-specific advice and assistance. 

5.       More broadly, the Government will continue to help our businesses adapt to structural or prolonged challenges and help them strengthen their resilience and capabilities.