The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suspended eight travel agents from conducting business under the Travel Agents Act 1975. The suspensions were announced last month and represent the highest number in a single day since the introduction of the Travel Agents Regulations in 2017.
Seven companies were suspended for failing to submit their required Audited Statement of Accounts (AA) and/or Annual Business Profile Returns (ABPR), which must be submitted within six months of the close of the financial year. One company was suspended for not maintaining the minimum financial requirement and failing to pay an outstanding penalty.
The suspensions will remain in effect until the required documents and payments are submitted or for a maximum of six months. During the suspension period, the affected agents must honor their existing customer obligations but are prohibited from accepting new bookings.
In its announcement, the STB reiterated its firm stance on regulating the travel industry, emphasizing its commitment to taking necessary actions to protect Singapore’s reputation as a travel hub.
