Singapore Bans MCCPs and LC-PFCAs, Including Products Containing Them

Singapore NEA will phase out the manufacture, import, export and use of chlorpyrifos, MCCPs (≥45% chlorine by weight) and LC-PFCAs, and products containing them, from 16 December 2026 under the EPMA to align with the Stockholm Convention on POPs.

On January 26, 2026, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) issued a circular regarding the regulatory phase-out of chlorpyrifos, medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs), and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs). This regulatory update aligns Singapore's chemical control framework with the latest listings under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), targeting the elimination of these POPs from domestic use and trade.

Background

The Stockholm Convention is an international environmental treaty that aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of (POPs). Following international decisions to list chlorpyrifos, MCCPs, and LC-PFCAs as POPs, Singapore NEA is implementing measures under the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA) and the EPM (Hazardous Substances) Regulations to control these POPs locally. This ensures Singapore's compliance with international treaty obligations to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals that persist in the environment and bioaccumulate.

Controlled POPs

The phase-out applies to three distinct categories of POPs. Singapore NEA has provided specific technical parameters, particularly regarding the chlorination levels for MCCPs, to clarify the scope of the ban:

Medium-chainchlorinated paraffins with chain lengths at least C14 but not exceeding C17 (MCCPs) (chlorination levels ≥ 45% chlorine by weight)
Long‑chain perfluorocarboxylic acids with chain lengths at least C9 but not exceeding C21, their salts and related compounds (LC‑PFCAs)
Chlorpyrifos

From December 16, 2026, the manufacture, import, and export of these three POPs, as well as products containing these chemicals, will not be allowed in Singapore.

Compliance and Implementation

Industry stakeholders are required to cease the import, manufacture, and use of these substances in accordance with the NEA's phase-out timeline. Companies currently holding stocks of these chemicals should review their supply chains and transition to non-POP alternatives. Failure to comply with the phase-out requirements may result in enforcement actions under Singapore's EPMA. Stakeholders should ensure proper disposal of any remaining restricted inventory through licensed toxic industrial waste collectors.