An examination of Singapore's "Lemon Law" and how online dispute resolution can further strengthen consumer protection.

• Main Authors: Choi, Pui Kit., Wong, Liang Lei., Phua, Abner Mian Hui.
• Other Authors: Fernandez Navprakash
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: DRNTU::Business::Law::In South Asia::Singapore
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/51430
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Alternative Dispute Resolution methods such as mediation and arbitration are used today more often as a more cost-effective and time saving method to resolve disputes amicably. In this paper, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) will be discussed with close reference to the recently amended Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, or also known as Lemon Law, passed in Singapore and in force since 1 September 2012. This paper will first discuss the Lemon Law itself and how the amendments strengthen the consumer protection environment in Singapore. Comparisons with similar laws in developed countries such as the U.K. will also be made. The next section of this paper will discuss on the feasibility of a novel ODR platform. The legal framework supporting consumer protection laws will also be highlighted. Future trends and further recommendations to strengthen the Lemon Law in Singapore will also be discussed. Appropriate lessons will also be drawn from a person-administered survey conducted to understand the local-specific needs and preferences with regards to the proposed ODR platform, as well as the awareness of Singaporean of their own legal rights as a consumer.