MANILA, April 16 -- Singapore warned that the escalation of tensions or military actions in the South China Sea (SCS) would disrupt trade and heavily impact decades worth of growth in the region, specifically among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states.

While not a claimant country, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on Tuesday said Singapore is concerned over the developments and a potential breakout of conflict in the area.

"Although Singapore has no claims in the South China Sea, the moment you have escalation of tension or collisions or military action in the South China Sea, it will immediately impair and impede trade. It will increase insurance premiums," he said after a bilateral meeting with Foreign Affa...