Singapore Consumers Demand Transparency as Petrol Prices Surge
Singaporean motorists are facing higher petrol prices, with recent increases even surpassing those seen during the 2022 Ukraine crisis. Caltex’s 95-octane petrol reached $3.45 per litre on March 13th, exceeding the previous high of $3.42.
CASE Calls for Fairer Pricing and Greater Transparency
Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) president Melvin Yong has urged petrol companies to be more transparent and promptly reflect reductions in global oil prices at the pump. Speaking at CASE’s 55th-anniversary dinner on March 15th, Yong highlighted the discrepancy between the speed at which prices rise and fall, leaving consumers feeling shortchanged.
“Consumers understand that global events and geopolitical tensions can affect our oil markets. But they are likewise asking a reasonable question,” Yong stated. “When global oil prices go up, pump prices move up quickly. But when global prices fall, consumers expect these savings to be reflected just as quickly.”
To facilitate consumers navigate fluctuating prices, CASE recommends utilizing the Price Kaki app to compare costs across different petrol stations.
Beyond Fuel: Protecting Consumers from Prepayment Risks
CASE’s concerns extend beyond petrol prices, focusing on the growing risk associated with prepayment-based business models. The association has observed instances of businesses collapsing after collecting substantial prepayments, leaving consumers with significant financial losses.
Whereas some responsible businesses have offered assistance to affected customers, Yong emphasized that goodwill alone is insufficient. CASE is advocating for a mandatory cooling-off period for businesses that collect significant prepayments, allowing consumers time to reconsider purchases and reducing pressure sales tactics.
Government Action and Public Consultation
The Singapore government is responding to these concerns. Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling announced collaboration with CASE to protect consumers against prepayment losses and address unfair practices, particularly within the beauty and wellness sector.
A public consultation, launched on March 16th by the Consumer Protection Review Panel, will gather feedback on these issues. The panel, convened in March 2025, is reviewing the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, with a focus on prepayment losses, pressure sales, and misleading online practices.
Unit Pricing Pilot Expansion to Empower Shoppers
Efforts to enhance consumer empowerment also include an expansion of the unit pricing pilot program. Currently, major supermarket chains display unit prices for essential items like rice, meat, and formula milk. This pilot, launched in September 2025, will be broadened to include more operators and a wider range of products later in 2026.
Initial feedback has been positive, with consumers appreciating the ability to compare costs per unit and make more informed purchasing decisions. The government is considering suggestions to improve clarity and consistency in unit price displays.
The workgroup overseeing the expansion is co-chaired by Melvin Yong and Sheng Siong chief executive Lim Hock Chee.
Did you know?
CASE was founded in 1971 and has been a leading voice for consumer rights in Singapore for over five decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Price Kaki? Price Kaki is a mobile app developed by CASE that allows consumers to compare prices of petrol and other essential goods across different retailers.
- What is a cooling-off period? A cooling-off period is a timeframe after a purchase during which a consumer can cancel the transaction and receive a full refund.
- What is unit pricing? Unit pricing displays the cost of a product per standard unit of measurement (e.g., per kilogram, per litre), allowing consumers to easily compare prices.
Pro Tip: Regularly check the CASE website and social media channels for updates on consumer advisories and protection initiatives.
Stay informed and protect your rights as a consumer. Explore more resources on the CASE website and share your experiences to help shape future consumer protection policies.
