South Korea to Ban Stockpiling Medical Syringes and Needles

Advertisement

SEOUL — South Korea will implement a ban on the stockpiling of medical syringes and needles to prevent disruptions in hospital supplies, starting Tuesday (April 14), as announced by the finance ministry.

Last week, authorities met with manufacturers of syringes and needles to evaluate their current inventory and explore strategies to ramp up production amid supply concerns stemming from the conflict in Iran, according to the industry ministry.

Disruptions in oil and petrochemical flows have led to increased plastic prices, which are essential for medical supplies and packaging, raising concerns about stockpiling and availability.

Advertisement

Trending
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
Read more >>
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
Read more >>
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
Read more >>
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
Read more >>
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
Read more >>
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Read more >>
Breaking the Silence: Singapore Women's Struggle with Undiagnosed Sexual Health Issues
Breaking the Silence: Singapore Women's Struggle with Undiagnosed Sexual Health Issues
Read more >>
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Read more >>
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Read more >>
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
Read more >>
Rise of Unqualified Online "Counsellors" Sparks Mental Health Concerns in Singapore
Rise of Unqualified Online "Counsellors" Sparks Mental Health Concerns in Singapore
Read more >>
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
Read more >>
Fluoride in Singapore: Should You Be Concerned About Its Effects?
Fluoride in Singapore: Should You Be Concerned About Its Effects?
Read more >>
7 Budget-Friendly Dental Clinics in Singapore for Quality Care Without Breaking the Bank
7 Budget-Friendly Dental Clinics in Singapore for Quality Care Without Breaking the Bank
Read more >>
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
Read more >>
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Read more >>
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
Read more >>
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
Read more >>
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
Read more >>
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
Read more >>

Advertisement

Advertisement

Recommend
Open Farm Community to close on Jan 11, months after Michelin nod
Open Farm Community to close on Jan 11, months after Michelin nod
Another one bites the dust as Open Farm Community at Dempsey announced its closure on Jan 11, after championing sustainable dining for over a decade.
Discover the Best Singapore Travel Packages: Your Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Holiday
Discover the Best Singapore Travel Packages: Your Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Holiday
Looking for the best way to explore Singapore? A well-planned travel package can offer you an unforgettable experience, from visiting iconic landmarks to enjoying local cuisine and vibrant culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the Lion City, there are travel packages that cater to all your needs. Let’s dive into the exciting options available for your next Singapore getaway.
Best Corporate Christmas Catering in Singapore 2026 for Festive Office Feasts
Best Corporate Christmas Catering in Singapore 2026 for Festive Office Feasts
As the final weeks of the year approach and offices gear up to celebrate achievements, teamwork, and holiday cheer, the annual tradition of corporate Christmas dining returns. Whether it’s a cosy small-group lunch in the meeting room, a full-company gathering in a private space, or a stylish catered spread brought directly to your workplace, Singapore’s 2026 festive dining scene offers something to suit every corporate occasion.

Advertisement

Movie Ticket Prices in Singapore 2026: Where to Find the Best Deals Now
Movie Ticket Prices in Singapore 2026: Where to Find the Best Deals Now
Singapore’s cinema landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. With several long-standing operators shutting their doors and streaming platforms becoming part of everyday life, many moviegoers have wondered whether the big-screen experience is slowly fading. Yet for countless Singaporeans, cinemas remain a treasured part of our lifestyle—whether it’s catching a late-night premiere, bringing the kids out during school holidays, or enjoying a simple mid-week escape.
What solo travel in my 30s taught me that my 20s never could
What solo travel in my 30s taught me that my 20s never could
Not everyone is lucky enough to be able to travel regularly in their 20s. While I don’t consider myself the jealous type, I couldn’t help but feel a tad envious when I had classmates or friends planning solo grad trips to Japan, Australia or Europe back in the day.
Japan visitor arrivals growth strong in November despite China travel warning
Japan visitor arrivals growth strong in November despite China travel warning
TOKYO — The ongoing diplomatic rift between Japan and China has had a muted impact on overall tourist numbers as visitors to Japan grew 10.4 per cent year-on-year in November, the country's tourism board said on Wednesday (Dec 17).
'Silent pickleball': Mountbatten residents trial playing with foam balls to reduce noise
'Silent pickleball': Mountbatten residents trial playing with foam balls to reduce noise
SINGAPORE — In a bid to promote considerate play amid the sport's growing popularity, Mountbatten residents of all ages are giving silent pickleball a go.
'CNY surcharge' for curry rice at Admiralty food court sparks debate, stall operator responds
'CNY surcharge' for curry rice at Admiralty food court sparks debate, stall operator responds
With Chinese New Year over a month away, one diner at a food court in Admiralty was surprised to find a festive surcharge added to her bill.
Why every mum in Singapore should schedule a mammogram
Why every mum in Singapore should schedule a mammogram
As parents, our days are full with school runs, meals, work, and family time. Very often we overlook our own health.
From Stress Relief to Full Reset: 8 Wellness Centres in Singapore Redefining Rest and Recovery
From Stress Relief to Full Reset: 8 Wellness Centres in Singapore Redefining Rest and Recovery
Singapore’s wellness industry has seen a noticeable surge in recent years, driven by a growing number of people looking to improve their overall quality of life. As conversations around stress management, balance and long-term vitality become more mainstream, wellness has evolved into something far more layered than a simple day at the spa.Today, recovery and self-care take many forms. Alongside traditional relaxation offerings, a new generation of wellness spaces has emerged, blending physical