MDDI's Response to PQ on Lessons from Overseas Counterparts for Google's Implementation of Age Assurance Measures

Parliament Sitting on 4 November 2025

Question for written answer

*29 Ms Poh Li San asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information regarding Google's implementation of age assurance measures in Singapore (a) whether the Ministry has reached out to their counterparts in the USA, UK, and selected markets in the European Economic Area for relevant learning points; (b) if so, what are they; and (c) whether the Ministry is aware whether similar measures will be implemented by other online portals in the near future.

Answer

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) has actively engaged our international counterparts, including those in the USA, the EU, the UK and Australia, on their plans for age assurance, for both sides to cross-share best practices. These learning points are useful as we shape our own age assurance policies.

Designated App Distribution Services, also known as app stores, must implement age assurance measures by 31 March 2026 as required by the Code of Practice for Online Safety for App Distribution Services. Besides Google Play Store, this includes Apple App Store, Huawei AppGallery, Microsoft Store, and Samsung Galaxy Store. 15

Later this year, MDDI will also begin to engage our six designated Social Media Services on similar age assurance requirements. Other than YouTube, this includes Facebook, HardwareZone, Instagram, TikTok, and X.

*Converted to written answer