LICENSED IMPORTERS OF FRESH FRUITS AS AT 1-8-67 (Number)

Mr Govindaswamy asked the Minister for Finance the number of licensed importers of fresh fruits in Singapore as at 1st August, 1967.

Dr Goh Keng Swee: With effect from 2nd August, 1966, specific licensing was imposed on the importation of apples, pears, grapes, mandarin oranges, peaches and plums. For some time, the importation of some of these fresh fruits from certain countries came under the control of importers' committees. These committees or panels of importers restricted imports to keep prices at a high level. Previous importers and wholesalers were not only excluded from importing direct by the committees, but even their members' proportionate share of imports and their sales to wholesalers were frozen over the years. This cartelization of our imports is contrary to Singapore's tradition of free trade and free competition.

Soon after such specific licensing was implemented, the various importers' committees in Singapore were dissolved and import licences for fresh fruits have been issued freely to all applicants, although some restrictions are imposed to prevent the formation of the panel system and the reintroduction of restricted practices. The Trade Division does not restrict the number of fresh fruit importers or the issue of licences. It is estimated that there are about 70 wholesale importers of fresh fruits in Singapore.

Mr Govindaswamy: Can the Minister say how many licences have been issued for the import of apples?

Dr Goh Keng Swee: I do not know. I do not have the figures.

Mr Govindaswamy: I am told that there is only one apple importer in Singapore. Is there any objection to anybody applying for a licence to import apples, and will his application be accepted by the Government?

Dr Goh Keng Swee: I have already explained that whoever wants to import apples, plums or peaches can apply for a licence and he will get it. I do not believe that there is only one importer of apples.