Written reply to PQ on data on applications for subletting of JTC properties, approval rates and safeguards against profiteering abuse

Question:

Mr Ng Shi Xuan: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) over the past five years (a) what is the number of applications made for subletting of JTC properties; (b) what is the number of successful applications; and (c) what are the safeguards that are in place to detect and prevent profiteering abuse.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Dr Tan See Leng

1.           From 2021 to 2025, approximately 37% of the Jurong Town Corporation's (JTC's) land lessees applied to sublet their premises to other businesses. JTC approved 99% of applications received. Tenants occupying JTC's ready-built developments are not allowed to sublet their premises to other businesses. 

2.           JTC's policy is for its lessees and tenants to fully occupy and use their leased or tenanted industrial premises for their own business needs and operations. Thus, subletting requires JTC's approval and is subject to conditions, including a cap on the subletting quantum and payment of relevant sublet fees, to prevent profiteering. Subletting without prior approval constitutes a breach of conditions and will result in enforcement action, such as the recovery of higher sublet fees for the period of unauthorised subletting, and in more serious cases, lease or tenancy termination. 

3.           To identify unauthorised subletting, JTC conducts regular inspections, investigates feedback, complaints, and whistleblowing reports, and uses data analytics to strengthen its detection capabilities.