Unsustainable promises of sustainability: The real cost of SEHC framework on Singapore’s hawkers

Back in 2018, Socially-conscious Enterprise Hawker Centres were touted as a solution for sustainable hawker trade. However, its execution, marked by harsh terms and conditions, undermines this intent. Interviews with hawkers reveal unsustainable financial burdens, highlighting a significant gap between the program’s goals and the actual impact on the ground. Experts like Dr Ye Junjia from NTU, cited in the ST article, suggest that the economic sustainability of hawkers is being undermined by these practices. She calls for a re-evaluation of what is deemed affordable, pointing out that while Singaporeans enjoy high-quality food at low prices, the economic burden placed on hawkers is unsustainable.

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