English Language Guideline Considerations towards F&B Outlets that Primarily Use Chinese Language in Stores

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry in view of more F&B outlets primarily using Chinese language (a) whether there are guidelines on language requirement for shop displays, menus, and hiring English-speaking staff; (b) whether outlets will be required to have English menus and English-speaking staff; and (c) whether the Ministry will address this issue considering the large non-Chinese population among citizens, foreign workers and tourists.

There are no guidelines or regulations requiring the use of the English language for food and beverage shop displays, menus or the hiring of English-speaking staff. Businesses are free to decide on these matters. However, many businesses recognise that the English language is a common medium of communication in Singapore, and choose to utilise it in its displays, menus and operations in order to serve a wider and diverse customer base.