Progress of Work by Fair Tenancy Pro Tem Committee

Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what is the progress of work by the Fair Tenancy Pro Tem Committee; (b) how can the Government help facilitate a win-win partnership between tenants and their landlords to strengthen collaboration and increase the vibrancy and competitiveness  of Singapore's retail, food and beverage, and lifestyle sectors; and (c) whether the Government is considering a regulatory and compliance framework as a tool to support a fair code of conduct.

The Fair Tenancy Pro Tem Committee was formed in June 2020 under the auspices of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). It aims to develop a tenancy framework and establish industry norms on tenancy practices and terms. Discussions between the landlord and tenant communities have been constructive. The committee has been making progress on long-standing issues relating to rental data transparency, fair conduct on the part of landlords and tenants, and enforcement and dispute resolution.

On the specific issue of compliance, the Pro Tem Committee has been discussing a number of options including self-regulation via an industry-developed code of conduct; or legislation; or a combination of both. Government agencies are closely involved in the process and are working with SBF to help facilitate discussions in the spirit of fairness, transparency and reciprocity.

The Government looks forward to receiving the Committee’s preliminary report soon.