The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act

The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) is the result of years of relentless lobbying by the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE). What we see today is a testimony to the continued dedication of countless consumer advocates and volunteers over the years.

The driving force behind CASE is our firm belief that we need fair trading legislation to promote a fairer and more equitable marketplace. The law will protect both consumers and traders by making the playing field more level. In 1979, the late Mr Ivan Baptist, then President of CASE, first urged the government to consider a fair trading legislation in the Parliament.

When the CPFTA takes effect on 1 March 2004, consumers, who have been at the receiving end of unfair practices, will have recourse. Businesses whose earnings have suffered at the hands of their irresponsible counterparts will have satisfaction in the knowledge that such black sheep will be taken to task.

Over time, the CPFTA will boost the retail sector, develop consumer sophistication, and contribute towards Singapore's economic progress.

Why it began?

The push for this Act began with the observable increase in the number of errant traders and unethical business practices over the years. As a consumer organisation, CASE has come across numerous instances where consumers sought our help when they fell victim to unscrupulous business tactics. These included high-pressure selling tactics and aggressive door-to-door salespersons, amongst others.

What we are advocating for...

We want to create a fair trading environment for consumers and businesses alike.

Outcome today...

The CPFTA will come into effect on 1 March 2004. It will facilitate a fairer trading environment for both consumers and businesses. The legislation will protect consumers, without adding onerous burdens to businesses and costs. The Act sets out a list of unfair trade practices where consumers can seek civil remedies by showing that traders have committed these practices. Traders who commit unfair trade practices will not be subject to criminal sanction.

With the Act in effect, consumers and suppliers must know their rights and responsibilities under the law.

How can I find out more about the CPFTA?

Buy the "Fair Trading & You booklet"! Retailing at $2.00 a copy (excluding GST), this booklet describes in a question and answer format on all the things you need to know about the Act. It details what the Act covers, illustrates the 20 unfair practices using comics and explains what you should do if you are involved in an unfair practice situation. This booklet is available at all Popular bookstores, NTUC Fairprice outlets and CASE office.

Know your rights! Buy the booklet today!

Do you have a soft copy of the "Fair Trading & You" booklet?

The "Fair Trading & You" booklet is only available in hard copy. But CASE has received consumers' request that online version is more convenient and information flow is immediate. As such, we have taken out the appendix of the booklet and you can now download the file! The appendix contains the actual legislative language of the 20 unfair practices, supported by real life scenarios and examples.

For more comprehensive understanding, you are strongly encouraged to purchase the booklet.