The Platform Workers Act (“the act”), taking effect Jan. 1, 2025, will be a game changer in Singapore’s labor landscape. It marks a significant step toward recognizing the unique circumstances of platform workers and providing them with essential protections. As one of the first countries to establish specific safeguards for this growing workforce, Singapore is demonstrating its commitment to adapting labor laws to the evolving digital economy.

Understanding Platform Workers and Platform Operators

The act defines “platform workers” as individuals who contract with platform operators to provide services (currently limited to ride-hailing and delivery services). These workers operate with some level of autonomy, subject to the platform operator’s rules and requirements on service levels, pricing, and payment terms. Platform operators are the businesses that facilitate these services through digital platforms, connecting platform workers with consumers and exercising certain levels of management and control.

Key Benefits for Platform Workers

• Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions: Currently, platform workers contribute to their MediSave accounts only. Under the act, platform operators will be required to contribute to both employer and employee CPF accounts for platform workers, ensuring a retirement safety net. The contributions will gradually align with those of salaried employees over five years, starting with mandatory contributions for workers born on or after...

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