Singapore’s prohibition of arms and dual-use item

Announcement No. (2/ 2023)
February 16, 2023

The National Unity Government strongly welcomes Singapore’s confirmation that it prohibits arms  transfers to the illegal military junta in Myanmar.

H.E. Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs, confirmed the existing ban in a  parliamentary statement on 14 February 2023, highlighting that it was consistent with UN General  Assembly Resolution 75/287 (2021) on the situation in Myanmar, which Singapore voted for.

Foreign Minister Balakrishnan also confirmed that Singapore would not authorise the transfer of dual use items “assessed to have potential military application to Myanmar, where there is a serious risk that  they may be used to inflict violence against unarmed civilians”. Putting corporations on notice, the  Foreign Minister added that Singapore would take a “very firm line” against companies who  contravened its laws including those on the transfer and brokering of strategic goods and technology.

The National Unity Government extends its sincere gratitude to the Government of Singapore for its  principled stance, and to Foreign Minister Balakrishnan for his expressions of solidarity with the  Myanmar people.

The National Unity Government remains committed to working in partnership with Myanmar’s fellow  ASEAN Members to end the illegal junta’s atrocities and to advance the peace, security and prosperity  of our region.