Minister Lim Hng Kiang's written reply to the Parliament Question on the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement’s impact on Singapore’s environmental laws and green spaces

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Question:

Ms Faizah Jamal: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether there will be any provision in the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement that will grant transnational corporations the power to challenge any country's environmental law, regulation or court decision; and (b) if so, whether these provisions will result in adverse effects on Singapore's environment and natural spaces and what safeguards will be in place.

Written Reply by Mr Lim Hng Kiang, Minister for Trade and Industry:

The TPP negotiations are on-going. Nevertheless, one objective of the TPP is to ensure that environmental protection is not compromised while TPP countries pursue trade interests. Therefore, instead of having an adverse effect on Singapore’s environment, the TPP will complement Singapore’s efforts in protecting the environment and our natural spaces.