Singapore’s controversial tray-return and table-clearing rules appear to be changing diner behaviour, with enforcement cases plunging sharply in 2026.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) issued 52 warning letters and just three fines to diners for failing to return used trays and crockery or clear litter from their tables during the first half of 2026.

That represents a dramatic decline from previous years. In the first half of 2025, NEA issued 628 warning letters and seven fines, while the