Singapore Customs seized 335 vehicles in 2025 for smuggling contraband, including duty-unpaid cigarettes and liquor, marking a 140% increase from the 239 seized in 2023 and surpassing the 300 seized in 2024 [1, 2, 3, 4]. About 70% of these vehicles were foreign-registered [1, 2, 3, 4].
The contraband was hidden in modified compartments, such as door panels and motorcycle bodywork [1, 2, 3, 4]. While illicit cigarettes are also smuggled by sea and air, many smugglers exploit land checkpoints due to heavy traffic, which complicates enforcement [1, 2, 3, 4].
December 19, 2025, was the busiest day on record, when nearly 589,000 travellers entered Singapore via land checkpoints [1, 2, 3, 4]. Stepped-up inspections at these points and within Singapore helped Customs detect and seize more vehicles and goods [1, 2, 3, 4]. Overall contraband detection by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) rose 30.6% in 2025 compared to the previous year [1, 2, 3, 4].
The illicit tobacco trade cost the government an estimated SGD 156 million in lost revenue, driven by rising cigarette prices and increased demand for cheaper alternatives [1, 2, 3, 4].
"Vehicles used in conveying, delivering, or storing duty-unpaid goods will be seized by Singapore Customs," a Singapore Customs spokesperson said [1]. "When such vehicles are intercepted by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority at Singapore’s checkpoints, the vehicles and duty-unpaid goods will also be handed over to Customs for investigation," the spokesperson added [1].
Vehicle owners or hirers may be held liable if their vehicles are used to smuggle duty-unpaid goods, regardless of who controls the vehicle at the time [1]. Seized vehicles are subject to investigation and possible forfeiture or return after court proceedings [1, 2, 3, 4].
On May 25, 2025, Singapore Customs publicly announced statistics on the rise in vehicle seizures and efforts to strengthen enforcement at land borders [1, 2, 3, 4].
