Written reply to PQs on Low-Cost Dispute Resolution Platform for Vehicle Leasing Firms and Vocational Drivers or Riders

Questions

Ms See Jinli Jean: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry whether the Ministry will consider setting up a dedicated, low-cost dispute resolution platform to facilitate the resolution of leasing disputes between vehicle leasing firms and vocational drivers or riders who are concerned about unfair vehicle leasing terms being invoked against them.

Dr Tan Wu Meng: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether any code of conduct or best practice contract terms exist for firms or companies that lease vehicles to vocational drivers or riders; (b) since 2021, how many complaints have been received regarding allegations that such contractual terms are misleading, onerous, or unconscionable and what recourse is available; and (c) whether the market concentration of such leasing firms or companies is a possible cause for such complaints.

Dr Tan Wu Meng: To ask the Minister for Trade and Industry whether platform companies can be incentivised to partner with vehicle leasing firms or companies with responsible contractual practices for the lease of vehicles to vocational drivers or riders.

Written Answer by Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1. Vehicle leasing terms are commercial agreements between vehicle leasing firms and vocational drivers or riders. Based on vehicle registration records, there are over a thousand fleet owners in the point-to-point (P2P) passenger transport rental market. The vehicle leasing firms offer different packages and contracts which cater to the different needs and preferences of drivers and riders. If disputes arise, aside from legal recourse through the courts, affected parties could consider lower-cost dispute resolution channels such as mediation services offered by the Singapore Mediation Centre.