🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 143 (from laksa104)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa143.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/","crawl_time":1765483770,"first_indexed_time":0,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,cbsnews!www,\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/ s443","src_root_hash":"10008871826360721943","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Singapore Lifts Gum Ban - CBS News","meta_descriptions":["Ends 12-Year Prohibition, But Buying A Pack Far From Hassle-Free"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"\nUltra-tidy Singapore is lifting its notorious ban on chewing gum after 12 long years — but getting a pack won't be entirely hassle-free. Wrigley's Orbit gum has just started appearing in pharmacies along with several other brands. Before Singaporeans even think about unwrapping a pack, however, they must submit their names and ID card numbers. If they don't, pharmacists who sell them gum could be jailed up to two years and fined $2,940. The decision comes after new trade talks that included pressure from  Rep. Philip Crane , R-Ill., whose state is home to gum giant  Wrigley Co.  Singapore has also been at pains in recent years to shed its \"nanny state\" image and promote itself as a hip, cosmopolitan hub for media and the arts in Asia. But that has proven a difficult task in a country where films and television shows are often censored, home satellite TV antennae are banned and various books, magazines and even popular songs are outlawed. Fines are levied for spitting or failing to flush public toilets. Singaporeans, many of whom have long derided the chewing gum ban, seemed unimpressed by the change. \"It's ridiculous that it's easier for 16-year-olds to visit prostitutes than it is to get chewing gum here,\" said Fayen Wong, a 22-year old college student. Prostitution is legal in parts of Singapore — and no registration is required. This Southeast Asian city-state, known for its immaculate streets, outlawed the manufacture, import and sale of chewing gum in 1992 after the country's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, complained that it was fouling streets, buildings, buses and subway trains. Lee, 80, stepped down as prime minister in 1990 but still wields considerable influence. Gum became a sticking point months ago in Singapore's free trade talks with Washington, when Crane pressed the issue. Singapore compromised, agreeing to allow only the sale of \"therapeutic\" gum in pharmacies, and the free trade pact took effect Jan. 1. The Health Sciences Authority, responding to questions from The Associated Press, said it has allowed the sale of 19 \"medicinal\" and \"dental\" gum products. Orbit, which Wrigleys touts as good for teeth, hit pharmacy shelves just days ago. Pfizer Inc.'s Nicorette, a nicotine gum meant to help smokers kick their addiction, has been available since March. Nicorette costs $11 for a pack of 30 pieces. A pack of Orbit goes for 94 cents. \"Why would I go through the trouble of getting nicotine gum if I can buy a pack of cigarettes without giving my name?\" said Wong. \"I don't think the new rules will help smokers to quit.\" The Straits Times newspaper, which has close government ties, reported Sunday that street cleaners have already complained about the return of spent wads of chewing gum to their once pristine pavement. Critics of restrictions have often cited the chewing gum ban as an example of the government's excesses. But the partial legalization of gum is \"really a non-event,\" said Koh Beng Liang, 25, a research engineer who said he hasn't yet bothered having a legal chew. \"Singaporeans will quickly realize it if the so-called loosening up is for foreign image, and not real change,\" Koh said.  By Gillian Wong\n\n    ","attrs_markdown":"- [Latest](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/)\n  - [U.S.](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/us\/)\n  - [Venezuela Tanker](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/u-s-seized-oil-tanker-off-the-coast-of-venezuela-trump-says\/)\n  - [Health Care Vote](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live-updates\/senate-health-care-vote-bills-tax-credits\/)\n  - [World](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/world\/)\n  - [Politics](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/politics\/)\n  - [Entertainment](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/entertainment\/)\n  - [HealthWatch](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/healthwatch\/)\n  - [MoneyWatch](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/moneywatch\/)\n  - [Crime](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/crime\/)\n  - [Space](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/space\/)\n  - [Sports](https:\/\/www.cbssports.com\/)\n  - [Brand Studio](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/brandstudio\/)\n  - [The Free Press](https:\/\/www.thefp.com\/?utm_source=cbsnews&utm_medium=global_nav)\n- [Local News](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbslocal\/)\n  - [Atlanta](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/atlanta\/)\n  - [Baltimore](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/baltimore\/)\n  - [Bay Area](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sanfrancisco\/)\n  - [Boston](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/boston\/)\n  - [Chicago](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/chicago\/)\n  - [Colorado](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/colorado\/)\n  - [Detroit](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/detroit\/)\n  - [Los Angeles](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/losangeles\/)\n  - [Miami](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/miami\/)\n  - [Minnesota](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/minnesota\/)\n  - [New York](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/newyork\/)\n  - [Philadelphia](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/philadelphia\/)\n  - [Pittsburgh](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/pittsburgh\/)\n  - [Sacramento](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sacramento\/)\n  - [Texas](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/texas\/)\n- [Live](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live\/)\n  - [CBS News 24\/7](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live\/)\n  - [Baltimore](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/baltimore\/live\/)\n  - [Bay Area](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sanfrancisco\/live\/)\n  - [Boston](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/boston\/live\/)\n  - [Chicago](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/chicago\/live\/)\n  - [Colorado](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/colorado\/live\/)\n  - [Detroit](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/detroit\/live\/)\n  - [Los Angeles](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/losangeles\/live\/)\n  - [Miami](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/miami\/live\/)\n  - [Minnesota](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/minnesota\/live\/)\n  - [New York](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/newyork\/live\/)\n  - [Philadelphia](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/philadelphia\/live\/)\n  - [Pittsburgh](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/pittsburgh\/live\/)\n  - [Sacramento](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sacramento\/live\/)\n  - [Texas](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/texas\/live\/)\n  - [48 Hours](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live\/48-hours\/)\n  - [60 Minutes](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live\/60-minutes\/)\n- [Shows](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/)\n  - [48 Hours](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/48-hours\/)\n  - [60 Minutes](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/60-minutes\/)\n  - [CBS Evening News](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/evening-news\/)\n  - [CBS Mornings](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-mornings\/)\n  - [CBS Morning News](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-news-mornings\/)\n  - [CBS Reports](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-reports\/)\n  - [CBS Saturday Morning](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-mornings\/saturday\/)\n  - [The Daily Report](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/the-daily-report\/)\n  - [The Dish](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/the-dish\/)\n  - [Face the Nation](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/face-the-nation\/)\n  - [Sunday Morning](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sunday-morning\/)\n  - [The Takeout](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/the-takeout\/)\n  - [The Uplift](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/uplift\/)\n- - [CBS News Investigates](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-investigates\/)\n  - [CBS News Confirmed](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/cbs-news-confirmed\/)\n  - [Podcasts](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/podcasts\/)\n  - [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/newsletters\/)\n  - [Download Our App](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/app\/?ftag=CNM-16-10abd6g)\n  - [CBS News Team](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/team\/)\n  - [Executive Team](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/executive-team\/)\n  - [Brand Studio](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/brandstudio\/)\n  - [Paramount+](https:\/\/www.paramountplus.com\/news\/?ftag=PPM-06-10ahi1b)\n  - [Join Our Talent Community](https:\/\/pages.beamery.com\/paramount\/page\/cbsnewsstations)\n  - [RSS Feeds](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/rss\/)\n\n- [U.S.](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/us\/)\n- [Venezuela Tanker](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/u-s-seized-oil-tanker-off-the-coast-of-venezuela-trump-says\/)\n- [Health Care Vote](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live-updates\/senate-health-care-vote-bills-tax-credits\/)\n- [World](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/world\/)\n- [Politics](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/politics\/)\n- [HealthWatch](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/healthwatch\/)\n- [MoneyWatch](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/moneywatch\/)\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/entertainment\/)\n- [Crime](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/crime\/)\n- [Sports](https:\/\/www.cbssports.com\/)\n- [The Free Press](https:\/\/www.thefp.com\/?utm_source=cbsnews&utm_medium=%20sub_nav)\n\n[Watch CBS News](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/live\/)\n\n[World](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/world?ftag=CNM-16-10abg0d)\n\n# Singapore Lifts Gum Ban\nMay 26, 2004 \/ 8:53 AM EDT \/ CBS\/AP\n\n[Add CBS News on Google](https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=cbsnews.com)\n\nUltra-tidy Singapore is lifting its notorious ban on chewing gum after 12 long years — but getting a pack won't be entirely hassle-free.\n\nWrigley's Orbit gum has just started appearing in pharmacies along with several other brands. Before Singaporeans even think about unwrapping a pack, however, they must submit their names and ID card numbers. If they don't, pharmacists who sell them gum could be jailed up to two years and fined \\$2,940.\n\nThe decision comes after new trade talks that included pressure from [Rep. Philip Crane](http:\/\/www.house.gov\/crane), R-Ill., whose state is home to gum giant [Wrigley Co.](http:\/\/www.wrigley.com\/wrigley\/index.asp) Singapore has also been at pains in recent years to shed its \"nanny state\" image and promote itself as a hip, cosmopolitan hub for media and the arts in Asia.\n\nBut that has proven a difficult task in a country where films and television shows are often censored, home satellite TV antennae are banned and various books, magazines and even popular songs are outlawed. Fines are levied for spitting or failing to flush public toilets.\n\nSingaporeans, many of whom have long derided the chewing gum ban, seemed unimpressed by the change.\n\n\"It's ridiculous that it's easier for 16-year-olds to visit prostitutes than it is to get chewing gum here,\" said Fayen Wong, a 22-year old college student. Prostitution is legal in parts of Singapore — and no registration is required.\n\nThis Southeast Asian city-state, known for its immaculate streets, outlawed the manufacture, import and sale of chewing gum in 1992 after the country's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, complained that it was fouling streets, buildings, buses and subway trains.\n\nLee, 80, stepped down as prime minister in 1990 but still wields considerable influence.\n\nGum became a sticking point months ago in Singapore's free trade talks with Washington, when Crane pressed the issue.\n\nSingapore compromised, agreeing to allow only the sale of \"therapeutic\" gum in pharmacies, and the free trade pact took effect Jan. 1.\n\nThe Health Sciences Authority, responding to questions from The Associated Press, said it has allowed the sale of 19 \"medicinal\" and \"dental\" gum products.\n\nOrbit, which Wrigleys touts as good for teeth, hit pharmacy shelves just days ago. Pfizer Inc.'s Nicorette, a nicotine gum meant to help smokers kick their addiction, has been available since March.\n\nNicorette costs \\$11 for a pack of 30 pieces. A pack of Orbit goes for 94 cents.\n\n\"Why would I go through the trouble of getting nicotine gum if I can buy a pack of cigarettes without giving my name?\" said Wong. \"I don't think the new rules will help smokers to quit.\"\n\nThe Straits Times newspaper, which has close government ties, reported Sunday that street cleaners have already complained about the return of spent wads of chewing gum to their once pristine pavement.\n\nCritics of restrictions have often cited the chewing gum ban as an example of the government's excesses.\n\nBut the partial legalization of gum is \"really a non-event,\" said Koh Beng Liang, 25, a research engineer who said he hasn't yet bothered having a legal chew.\n\n\"Singaporeans will quickly realize it if the so-called loosening up is for foreign image, and not real change,\" Koh said.\n\nBy Gillian Wong\n\n© 2004 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.\n\nFeatured\n\n[Erika Kirk](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/erika-kirk-candace-owens-conspiracy-theories-charlie-kirk\/)\n\n[Minneapolis Snow Totals](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/minnesota\/news\/minneapolis-minnesota-snow-totals-dec-10-2025\/)\n\n[MLB Winter Meetings](https:\/\/www.cbssports.com\/mlb\/news\/mlb-winter-meetings-2025-live-updates-analysis-rumors-news-wednesday\/live\/)\n\n[Real Madrid vs. Manchester City](https:\/\/www.cbssports.com\/soccer\/news\/champions-league-scores-live-updates-as-real-madrid-face-manchester-city-in-crucial-game-for-xabi-alonso\/live\/)\n\nFollow Us On\n\n[YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/CBSNews\/)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CBSNews\/)\n\n[Instagram](https:\/\/instagram.com\/cbsnews\/)\n\n[X](https:\/\/x.com\/CBSNews\/)\n\nPrivacy\n\n[Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.viacomcbsprivacy.com\/policy)\n\n[California Notice](https:\/\/privacy.paramount.com\/en\/policy#additional-information-us-states)\n\n[Your Privacy Choices](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/#onetrust-pc-sdk)\n\n[Terms of Use](https:\/\/legal.paramount.com\/us\/en\/cbsi\/terms-of-use)\n\nMore from CBS News\n\n[Newsletters](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/newsletters\/)\n\n[Podcasts](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/podcasts\/)\n\n[Download Our App](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/app\/)\n\n[Brand Studio](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/brandstudio\/)\n\n[Sitemap](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/sitemap\/)\n\nCompany\n\n[About Paramount](https:\/\/www.paramount.com\/)\n\n[Advertise With Paramount](https:\/\/www.paramount.com\/about\/businesses\/advertising)\n\n[Join Our Talent Community](https:\/\/pages.beamery.com\/paramount\/page\/cbsnewsstations)\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.cbsnews.com\/s\/)\n\n[Feedback](https:\/\/www.cbs.com\/showfeedback\/)\n\n[Contact the Ombudsman](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/ombudsman\/)\n\nCopyright ©2025 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved.\n\nView CBS News In\n\nCBS News App\n\n[Open](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/app\/?ftag=CNM-16-10abd6g&url=https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/)\n\nChrome\n\nSafari\n\n[Continue](https:\/\/www.cbsnews.com\/news\/singapore-lifts-gum-ban\/#app)","attrs_readable_markdown":null,"meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

4 months ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	4.3 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/
Last Crawled	2025-12-11 20:09:30 (4 months ago)
First Indexed	not set
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Singapore Lifts Gum Ban - CBS News
Meta Description	Ends 12-Year Prohibition, But Buying A Pack Far From Hassle-Free
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Ultra-tidy Singapore is lifting its notorious ban on chewing gum after 12 long years — but getting a pack won't be entirely hassle-free. Wrigley's Orbit gum has just started appearing in pharmacies along with several other brands. Before Singaporeans even think about unwrapping a pack, however, they must submit their names and ID card numbers. If they don't, pharmacists who sell them gum could be jailed up to two years and fined $2,940. The decision comes after new trade talks that included pressure from Rep. Philip Crane , R-Ill., whose state is home to gum giant Wrigley Co. Singapore has also been at pains in recent years to shed its "nanny state" image and promote itself as a hip, cosmopolitan hub for media and the arts in Asia. But that has proven a difficult task in a country where films and television shows are often censored, home satellite TV antennae are banned and various books, magazines and even popular songs are outlawed. Fines are levied for spitting or failing to flush public toilets. Singaporeans, many of whom have long derided the chewing gum ban, seemed unimpressed by the change. "It's ridiculous that it's easier for 16-year-olds to visit prostitutes than it is to get chewing gum here," said Fayen Wong, a 22-year old college student. Prostitution is legal in parts of Singapore — and no registration is required. This Southeast Asian city-state, known for its immaculate streets, outlawed the manufacture, import and sale of chewing gum in 1992 after the country's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, complained that it was fouling streets, buildings, buses and subway trains. Lee, 80, stepped down as prime minister in 1990 but still wields considerable influence. Gum became a sticking point months ago in Singapore's free trade talks with Washington, when Crane pressed the issue. Singapore compromised, agreeing to allow only the sale of "therapeutic" gum in pharmacies, and the free trade pact took effect Jan. 1. The Health Sciences Authority, responding to questions from The Associated Press, said it has allowed the sale of 19 "medicinal" and "dental" gum products. Orbit, which Wrigleys touts as good for teeth, hit pharmacy shelves just days ago. Pfizer Inc.'s Nicorette, a nicotine gum meant to help smokers kick their addiction, has been available since March. Nicorette costs $11 for a pack of 30 pieces. A pack of Orbit goes for 94 cents. "Why would I go through the trouble of getting nicotine gum if I can buy a pack of cigarettes without giving my name?" said Wong. "I don't think the new rules will help smokers to quit." The Straits Times newspaper, which has close government ties, reported Sunday that street cleaners have already complained about the return of spent wads of chewing gum to their once pristine pavement. Critics of restrictions have often cited the chewing gum ban as an example of the government's excesses. But the partial legalization of gum is "really a non-event," said Koh Beng Liang, 25, a research engineer who said he hasn't yet bothered having a legal chew. "Singaporeans will quickly realize it if the so-called loosening up is for foreign image, and not real change," Koh said. By Gillian Wong
Markdown	- [Latest](https://www.cbsnews.com/) - [U.S.](https://www.cbsnews.com/us/) - [Venezuela Tanker](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-seized-oil-tanker-off-the-coast-of-venezuela-trump-says/) - [Health Care Vote](https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/senate-health-care-vote-bills-tax-credits/) - [World](https://www.cbsnews.com/world/) - [Politics](https://www.cbsnews.com/politics/) - [Entertainment](https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/) - [HealthWatch](https://www.cbsnews.com/healthwatch/) - [MoneyWatch](https://www.cbsnews.com/moneywatch/) - [Crime](https://www.cbsnews.com/crime/) - [Space](https://www.cbsnews.com/space/) - [Sports](https://www.cbssports.com/) - [Brand Studio](https://www.cbsnews.com/brandstudio/) - [The Free Press](https://www.thefp.com/?utm_source=cbsnews&utm_medium=global_nav) - [Local News](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbslocal/) - [Atlanta](https://www.cbsnews.com/atlanta/) - [Baltimore](https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/) - [Bay Area](https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/) - [Boston](https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/) - [Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/) - [Colorado](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/) - [Detroit](https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/) - [Los Angeles](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/) - [Miami](https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/) - [Minnesota](https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/) - [New York](https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/) - [Philadelphia](https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/) - [Pittsburgh](https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/) - [Sacramento](https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/) - [Texas](https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/) - [Live](https://www.cbsnews.com/live/) - [CBS News 24/7](https://www.cbsnews.com/live/) - [Baltimore](https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/live/) - [Bay Area](https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/live/) - [Boston](https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/live/) - [Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/live/) - [Colorado](https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/live/) - [Detroit](https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/live/) - [Los Angeles](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/live/) - [Miami](https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/live/) - [Minnesota](https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/live/) - [New York](https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/live/) - [Philadelphia](https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/live/) - [Pittsburgh](https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/live/) - [Sacramento](https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/live/) - [Texas](https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/live/) - [48 Hours](https://www.cbsnews.com/live/48-hours/) - [60 Minutes](https://www.cbsnews.com/live/60-minutes/) - [Shows](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/) - [48 Hours](https://www.cbsnews.com/48-hours/) - [60 Minutes](https://www.cbsnews.com/60-minutes/) - [CBS Evening News](https://www.cbsnews.com/evening-news/) - [CBS Mornings](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-mornings/) - [CBS Morning News](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-news-mornings/) - [CBS Reports](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-reports/) - [CBS Saturday Morning](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-mornings/saturday/) - [The Daily Report](https://www.cbsnews.com/the-daily-report/) - [The Dish](https://www.cbsnews.com/the-dish/) - [Face the Nation](https://www.cbsnews.com/face-the-nation/) - [Sunday Morning](https://www.cbsnews.com/sunday-morning/) - [The Takeout](https://www.cbsnews.com/the-takeout/) - [The Uplift](https://www.cbsnews.com/uplift/) - - [CBS News Investigates](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-investigates/) - [CBS News Confirmed](https://www.cbsnews.com/cbs-news-confirmed/) - [Podcasts](https://www.cbsnews.com/podcasts/) - [Newsletters](https://www.cbsnews.com/newsletters/) - [Download Our App](https://www.cbsnews.com/app/?ftag=CNM-16-10abd6g) - [CBS News Team](https://www.cbsnews.com/team/) - [Executive Team](https://www.cbsnews.com/executive-team/) - [Brand Studio](https://www.cbsnews.com/brandstudio/) - [Paramount+](https://www.paramountplus.com/news/?ftag=PPM-06-10ahi1b) - [Join Our Talent Community](https://pages.beamery.com/paramount/page/cbsnewsstations) - [RSS Feeds](https://www.cbsnews.com/rss/) - [U.S.](https://www.cbsnews.com/us/) - [Venezuela Tanker](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-seized-oil-tanker-off-the-coast-of-venezuela-trump-says/) - [Health Care Vote](https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/senate-health-care-vote-bills-tax-credits/) - [World](https://www.cbsnews.com/world/) - [Politics](https://www.cbsnews.com/politics/) - [HealthWatch](https://www.cbsnews.com/healthwatch/) - [MoneyWatch](https://www.cbsnews.com/moneywatch/) - [Entertainment](https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/) - [Crime](https://www.cbsnews.com/crime/) - [Sports](https://www.cbssports.com/) - [The Free Press](https://www.thefp.com/?utm_source=cbsnews&utm_medium=%20sub_nav) [Watch CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/live/) [World](https://www.cbsnews.com/world?ftag=CNM-16-10abg0d) # Singapore Lifts Gum Ban May 26, 2004 / 8:53 AM EDT / CBS/AP [Add CBS News on Google](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=cbsnews.com) Ultra-tidy Singapore is lifting its notorious ban on chewing gum after 12 long years — but getting a pack won't be entirely hassle-free. Wrigley's Orbit gum has just started appearing in pharmacies along with several other brands. Before Singaporeans even think about unwrapping a pack, however, they must submit their names and ID card numbers. If they don't, pharmacists who sell them gum could be jailed up to two years and fined \$2,940. The decision comes after new trade talks that included pressure from [Rep. Philip Crane](http://www.house.gov/crane), R-Ill., whose state is home to gum giant [Wrigley Co.](http://www.wrigley.com/wrigley/index.asp) Singapore has also been at pains in recent years to shed its "nanny state" image and promote itself as a hip, cosmopolitan hub for media and the arts in Asia. But that has proven a difficult task in a country where films and television shows are often censored, home satellite TV antennae are banned and various books, magazines and even popular songs are outlawed. Fines are levied for spitting or failing to flush public toilets. Singaporeans, many of whom have long derided the chewing gum ban, seemed unimpressed by the change. "It's ridiculous that it's easier for 16-year-olds to visit prostitutes than it is to get chewing gum here," said Fayen Wong, a 22-year old college student. Prostitution is legal in parts of Singapore — and no registration is required. This Southeast Asian city-state, known for its immaculate streets, outlawed the manufacture, import and sale of chewing gum in 1992 after the country's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, complained that it was fouling streets, buildings, buses and subway trains. Lee, 80, stepped down as prime minister in 1990 but still wields considerable influence. Gum became a sticking point months ago in Singapore's free trade talks with Washington, when Crane pressed the issue. Singapore compromised, agreeing to allow only the sale of "therapeutic" gum in pharmacies, and the free trade pact took effect Jan. 1. The Health Sciences Authority, responding to questions from The Associated Press, said it has allowed the sale of 19 "medicinal" and "dental" gum products. Orbit, which Wrigleys touts as good for teeth, hit pharmacy shelves just days ago. Pfizer Inc.'s Nicorette, a nicotine gum meant to help smokers kick their addiction, has been available since March. Nicorette costs \$11 for a pack of 30 pieces. A pack of Orbit goes for 94 cents. "Why would I go through the trouble of getting nicotine gum if I can buy a pack of cigarettes without giving my name?" said Wong. "I don't think the new rules will help smokers to quit." The Straits Times newspaper, which has close government ties, reported Sunday that street cleaners have already complained about the return of spent wads of chewing gum to their once pristine pavement. Critics of restrictions have often cited the chewing gum ban as an example of the government's excesses. But the partial legalization of gum is "really a non-event," said Koh Beng Liang, 25, a research engineer who said he hasn't yet bothered having a legal chew. "Singaporeans will quickly realize it if the so-called loosening up is for foreign image, and not real change," Koh said. By Gillian Wong © 2004 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Featured [Erika Kirk](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/erika-kirk-candace-owens-conspiracy-theories-charlie-kirk/) [Minneapolis Snow Totals](https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/minneapolis-minnesota-snow-totals-dec-10-2025/) [MLB Winter Meetings](https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mlb-winter-meetings-2025-live-updates-analysis-rumors-news-wednesday/live/) [Real Madrid vs. Manchester City](https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/champions-league-scores-live-updates-as-real-madrid-face-manchester-city-in-crucial-game-for-xabi-alonso/live/) Follow Us On [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/CBSNews/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CBSNews/) [Instagram](https://instagram.com/cbsnews/) [X](https://x.com/CBSNews/) Privacy [Privacy Policy](https://www.viacomcbsprivacy.com/policy) [California Notice](https://privacy.paramount.com/en/policy#additional-information-us-states) [Your Privacy Choices](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/#onetrust-pc-sdk) [Terms of Use](https://legal.paramount.com/us/en/cbsi/terms-of-use) More from CBS News [Newsletters](https://www.cbsnews.com/newsletters/) [Podcasts](https://www.cbsnews.com/podcasts/) [Download Our App](https://www.cbsnews.com/app/) [Brand Studio](https://www.cbsnews.com/brandstudio/) [Sitemap](https://www.cbsnews.com/sitemap/) Company [About Paramount](https://www.paramount.com/) [Advertise With Paramount](https://www.paramount.com/about/businesses/advertising) [Join Our Talent Community](https://pages.beamery.com/paramount/page/cbsnewsstations) [Help](https://help.cbsnews.com/s/) [Feedback](https://www.cbs.com/showfeedback/) [Contact the Ombudsman](https://www.cbsnews.com/ombudsman/) Copyright ©2025 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved. View CBS News In CBS News App [Open](https://www.cbsnews.com/app/?ftag=CNM-16-10abd6g&url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/) Chrome Safari [Continue](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/#app)
Readable Markdown	null
Shard	143 (laksa)
Root Hash	10008871826360721943
Unparsed URL	com,cbsnews!www,/news/singapore-lifts-gum-ban/ s443