Singapore, November 10, 2025 – The Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCS) has issued guidance to household appliance manufacturers to ensure consumers retain the freedom to choose repair services and access information supporting sustainable purchasing decisions.
The move follows a joint study by CCS and the National Environment Agency (NEA) on Singapore’s household appliance market, launched after complaints that some manufacturers refused to supply repair inputs to independent repairers. The study found that while most repair parts are available, certain complex components are restricted to authorised networks — potentially limiting competition and consumer choice.
CCS said it was concerned that such restrictions could reduce competition between authorised and independent repairers. Manufacturers were encouraged to review their supply practices to ensure they comply with the Competition Act.
Warranty Transparency and Consumer Awareness
The report also highlighted inconsistent warranty terms across brands, noting that many consumers struggle to understand their coverage. CCS has developed a consumer checklist for warranties and urged manufacturers and retailers to present warranty duration, coverage, and limitations in clear, accessible language.
To help consumers make informed, environmentally conscious decisions, CCS encouraged manufacturers to disclose durability and repairability information — such as estimated product lifespan verified by third-party testing. The agency advised consumers to weigh the cost and safety of repairs against the long-term energy savings and environmental benefits of replacing older models.
While the study found little evidence of false or misleading environmental claims, CCS said it will continue to monitor the sector and take enforcement action if necessary to maintain fair competition and protect consumers.
