Written reply to PQ on CCCS' warning on unfair practices among hair salons

Question

Mr Liang Eng Hwa: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether the warning issued by the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) via a media release on 23 November 2023 on a hairdressing salon has been effective in deterring unfair practices among hair salons; (b) whether there have been similar new complaints received since then; and (c) whether the CCCS needs to demonstrate stronger deterrence and thereby be empowered to impose more effective enforcement measures.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1. Since the media release was issued in November 2023, the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has received fewer complaints concerning hair salons. Between December 2023 and April 2024, CASE received 128 such complaints, compared to 154 in the prior five-month period. The hair salon in question has given an undertaking to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) to stop engaging in unfair practices under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act.

2. CCCS investigates all claims of unfair practices and does not hesitate to take firm enforcement action when necessary. This includes seeking court injunctions to restrain errant businesses from engaging in unfair practices.

3. The Government will continue to work closely with CASE to monitor industry practices. We will also study whether more deterrent measures are needed to deal with egregious conduct.