This essay competition invited participants to critically analyse the extent and nature to which the government should intervene in markets today to ensure they function well to meet both economic and social objectives. Specifically, participants are encouraged to explore if the current competition and consumer protection laws and policies are sufficient to address market failures, while preserving the competitive process needed to promote efficiency and innovation, given rapid technological changes and the rise of the digital economy.

A record-breaking number of 134 submissions were received across both ‘Open’ and ‘School’ categories. The final judging panel comprised Ms Sia Aik Kor (CE, CCCS), CCCS Commission members – Ms Loo Siew Yee (MAS), Dr Faizal Bin Yahya (NUS), Ms Cindy Khoo (PMO), Consumer Protection Resource Panel members – Prof Ho Peng Kee (NUS), Prof Ang Peng Hwa (NTU), ESS members – Mr Colin Ong TS (part-time NTU lecturer) and Mr Teh Tat How (NUS).

Summary of the Winners:

Open Category:

1st Prize
Mr Goh Kyi Yeung (Columbia University)
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2nd Prize
Mr Low Jia Rong (NUS)
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3rd Prize
Mr Choo Jun Kai (Allen & Gledhill LLP) & Ms Siow Xian Qi Natalie (LVM Law Chambers LLC)
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Merit
Ms Shirley Yong Woon Yee
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Mr Lee Jia Ming & Mr Yeo Jiong Han (University of California, Berkeley). 
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Ms Valerie Chuang Zhen Jin (University of Cambridge)
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School Category
1st Prize Mr Lee Chong Dao, Joshua & Mr Khaw Wei Yi, Joseph (Recently completed National Service)   
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2nd Prize Ms Fiona Xiao Jingyi & Mr Wang Dingzheng (Raffles Institution)  
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3rd Prize Mr Ling Young Loon (National Service). 
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Merit 
Ms Peng You Yun & Ms Chang Yu Qing (Dunman High School)  
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Mr Oh Ming Song & Mr Choo Kai Jie Daniel (Currently serving National Service)  
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 Mr Kenneth Poh & Ms Megan Yeo Shu’en (Raffles Institution) 
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