What happens is that big companies try to trick consumers (as most consumers are not aware of their legal rights).
Common tactics are:
* It will cost x to fix this, as a gesture we will share the inflated repair cost with you 50/50.
* We don't make this model anymore but we have an identical model with a different serial number, we can offer you that at a "discount".
* We found the item had water damage and this is not covered in our warranty, even when we advertised these items being used in water.
* We are happy to repair the item but first we need to have the item inspected by a repair agent to see how the fault occurred. Please be aware if we find the fault is caused by you, then you agree to pay x dollar value amount even if we do not repair item (because you were at fault)
* Item spends many weeks being assessed for repair. Doesn't get repaired, sent back. Repeat.
.. and many more.
Only when you stand firm and start spouting the legal requirements do they suddenly resolve the situation VERY quickly.
I dealt with dodgy Samsung fridges and they tried to "share" the repair cost with me. I politely declined, then sent them an email citing my legal rights. Samsung then repaired the fridge promptly and no longer tried to talk with me about sharing costs of repair.
Most consumers fall for the tricks above or give up and buy a new item.
I don't think international companies care too much, they are adept selling to the masses. Those that cite the rules to get a repair are likely to be a tiny minority.
There is another aspect of the law which is less known. It is not actually Samsung or large manufacturer on the hook for consumer guarantee. It is the retailer. The retailer has to remedy the situation. If Samsung packs up operations, the retailer still needs to stand by the product it sold. This means that the retailer has an incentive to work with more reliable manufacturers and suppliers and will promptly ditch troublesome suppliers.