"Lemon law" passed in Parliament
Posted: 09 March 2012 2047 hrs
File photo of a second-hand car dealer. The so-called 'lemon law', which gives consumers better protection when they buy a defective product or a 'lemon', was passed in Parliament on Friday. It kicks in in September. -- NP PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
SINGAPORE: On Friday, Parliament passed the "Lemon Law" to strengthen consumer protection in Singapore.
Under the law, consumers can report a defective item within six months of delivery.
The burden of proof lays on the retailer to prove if the defect did not exist at the time of delivery. Otherwise, the consumer can request for repair or a replacement, and if not possible, ask for a reduction in price, or even a refund.
The Lemon Law applies to all goods, including consumables and perishables, but not services.
It will come into effect in September this year to allow the industry time to adjust.
Minister of State for Trade and Industry Teo Ser Luck said in Parliament that the amendments will expand and make more explicit the remedies available to both consumers and businesses, as well as clarify timelines and burden of proof.
He said: "Introducing such a law in Singapore will bring us in line with international jurisdictions, and assure both locals and tourists that the products they buy are of good quality, thus improving the image of the retail industry in Singapore."
-CNA/ac
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