Singapore consumers show rising openness to agentic AI shopping

By 2030, consumers expect about 10% of their online purchases to be made through AI agents. 

A growing share of Singapore consumers are open to agentic AI shopping, with 44% saying they would allow an AI agent to browse and buy on their behalf either now or within the next year, according to Worldpay.

The main appeal is cost savings, with 75% of respondents citing the ability to find the best deal as their top motivation.

By 2030, consumers expect about 10% of their online purchases to be made through AI agents. Based on projections for a $36b e-commerce market, this would amount to roughly $3.6b in spending conducted autonomously by agents.

Willingness varies by category. For groceries and daily essentials, 78% of consumers are open to using AI agents, typically with spending capped at $170.

For tickets such as concerts, sports events, and limited-edition drops, 21% would allow agent-initiated purchases of up to $850.

In air travel, 31% would permit spending of $170–$850, 28% up to $1,700, and 10% up to $8,500. For hotels, 30% are comfortable with spending of $170–$850, and 19% up to $1,700.

Trust and control remain sticking points. 39% of respondents say they are comfortable giving agents pre-set rules and limited control, whilst 12% would accept minimal control. Still, 63% worry about unauthorised purchases, and 61% are concerned about fraud.