The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has published a special gazette notification to regulate the activities of online sellers and sellers operating on digital platforms.
According to the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), e-commerce entities and platform operators involved in marketing and selling goods must adhere to the conditions outlined in the gazette notification throughout all stages of a transaction. These stages include the pre-purchase stage, purchase stage, and post-purchase stage. It is essential for them to comply with the regulations and guidelines specified in the notification during each of these phases.
During the pre-purchase process, e-commerce entities and platform operators are obligated to adhere to fair business practices, advertising guidelines, and ethical marketing practices. It is imperative for them to avoid any false representations, omissions, deceptive tactics, or anti-competitive behaviors while promoting their products and services.
As per the gazette notification, it is stated that customers must be provided with clear and unambiguous information regarding any special offers on goods or free trials. This includes details such as the eligibility requirements for availing of such offers or trials, the duration of the sale or offer, and any additional charges that may be applicable. The notification emphasizes the importance of transparently informing customers about these aspects to ensure they are well-informed before making a purchase decision.
E-commerce entities or platform operators must guarantee that the price displayed on their platform is the actual purchasing price of the item.
Further, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has enforced a new requirement for e-commerce entities or platform operators, mandating the implementation of a “fair and transparent” rating and review system.
Thereby, Publishing false ratings or reviews is prohibited, and online sellers are not allowed to hire third parties to post positive ratings and reviews.
Meanwhile, When collecting personal data from consumers, it is mandatory for all e-commerce entities or platform operators to provide a privacy statement.
During the purchase stage, it is essential for e-commerce entities or platform operators to offer consumers the chance to review a summary of their order before confirming it.
To maintain transparency, it is essential to issue a comprehensive receipt that includes the following information: the total price of the transaction, encompassing all charges; any mandatory or optional fees; accepted methods of payment; terms regarding delivery; policies pertaining to withdrawal, cancellation, returns, warranties, guarantees, privacy, and dispute resolution.
E-commerce entities and platform operators are obligated to provide customers with user-friendly payment options and implement robust security measures to minimize payment-related risks. Furthermore, they must collaborate with dependable logistics providers to ensure the smooth and reliable delivery of goods.
The gazette notification highlights the importance of granting customers cooling-off periods and the right to cancel their orders. Moreover, e-commerce entities and platform operators have a responsibility to assist customers in addressing any safety concerns associated with the purchased goods and ensure that all necessary safety requirements have been clearly disclosed.
Read the full gazette HERE.
