The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has announced the launch of a public tender for five land parcels designated for vegetable farming in Lim Chu Kang and Sungei Tengah. This initiative represents the seventh tranche of farmland available since 2017 and aligns with the government’s “30 by 30” vision, aiming to sustainably produce 30% of Singapore’s nutritional needs by 2030.

The tender will close at noon on December 7, 2023, with a 20-year lease period offered for the parcels, along with an option to extend the lease by an additional 10 years. Two of the parcels are situated in Neo Tiew Harvest Link, each covering approximately 20,250 square meters (sq m), while the remaining three adjoining parcels in Sungei Tengah Road range from 20,000 sq m to 20,300 sq m.

The targeted crops for these farms include leafy and fruited vegetables, as well as mushrooms. The SFA emphasized that proposals demonstrating the capacity for sustainably high production levels will be given preference in the selection process.

Given that less than 1% of Singapore’s land is allocated for agricultural food production, local farms are encouraged to adopt innovative technologies to boost productivity and enhance resilience against climate change. Every proposal will be evaluated based on various criteria, including production capability, track record, relevant farming experience, and adherence to best farming practices.

Wong Sheau Fong, SFA’s senior director of food infrastructure development and management division, indicated that the land tenders are designed to support promising farms with feasible and concrete sustainable food production plans. She noted that the SFA aims to collaborate with successful tenderers to strengthen Singapore’s agri-food industry and enhance food security.

This move comes as Singapore seeks to overcome challenges related to food supply and security, particularly following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.