Consumer Watchdog Urges Transparency on Chinese New Year Surcharges in Singapore
As the festive spirit of Chinese New Year envelops Singapore, consumers find themselves facing potential price hikes on various products and services. The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has sounded the alarm, urging sellers to disclose any seasonal surcharges upfront. This call to action comes in response to a rising trend of complaints, with nine cases reported last year compared to just four in 2022 and six in 2023.
The Reason Behind the Surge in Prices
Businesses across the island are grappling with the need to adjust prices due to increased costs of food items and labor during this celebratory period. Nail salon Nails Actually, situated in Buona Vista, is among those implementing surcharges ranging from S$5 to S$15 as Chinese New Year draws near. Owner Jason Tan explains that these additional charges help offset lean months and enable the salon to offer more discounts to customers, ultimately benefiting both the business and its employees.
Beyond beauty services, wet markets are also feeling the pinch, with produce prices skyrocketing by up to 40 percent. Unfavorable weather conditions have hampered crop yields, contributing to the surge in vegetable costs. Similarly, a seafood stallholder shared the impact of rising prices from suppliers, citing an increase from S$10 to S$16 per kilogram for prawns. NTUC FairPrice’s Andy Chang notes that prices traditionally soar by over 30 percent during this period, yet the supermarket chain has maintained stable prices for popular Chinese New Year ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and Chinese cabbage for the third consecutive year.
Struggles at the Chinatown Bazaar
While some consumers willingly pay premiums for holiday essentials, vendors at Chinatown’s annual Chinese New Year bazaar are met with a different reality. Facing sluggish sales compounded by inclement weather, stallholders have resorted to drastic markdowns to entice buyers. Sales have plummeted by 30 percent compared to the previous year, prompting sellers to adjust pricing strategies to move merchandise effectively.
In a bid to revitalize business, the Chinatown Festivals Committee is pinning hopes on the upcoming countdown event to drive foot traffic and boost sales. With enticing promotions planned post-countdown, the committee aims to attract more local shoppers for last-minute Chinese New Year purchases. While most stalls adhere to a 10.30pm closing time, extended operating hours until 1am are slated for the fair’s final day, offering a last-minute shopping opportunity for procrastinating revelers.
In conclusion, as Singaporeans navigate the hustle and bustle of Chinese New Year preparations, the importance of transparency in pricing cannot be overstated. By heeding CASE’s advice and disclosing any surcharges upfront, businesses can foster trust and goodwill with consumers, ensuring a harmonious shopping experience during this festive season.
