Government Releases Draft Directive To Regulate E-Commerce Business

Kathmandu: The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies has made public the draft of the Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) Directive, 2082. The draft aims to make e-commerce transparent, secure, and consumer-friendly. The ministry has invited opinions and suggestions from stakeholders and the general public within seven days.

The directive has been prepared under Section 37 of the Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) Act, 2081. Its objective is to bring online trade fully within the legal framework.

Under the draft, all e-commerce entrepreneurs will be required to register on the portal of the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection. Businesses already in operation but not registered will be given 35 days from the date the directive comes into force to complete registration.

If a business is found operating without registration, the department can issue an order within seven days. If the order is ignored, the platform itself may be shut down.

The draft places strong emphasis on consumer privacy and data security. E-commerce platforms must encrypt users’ personal data. Charging any amount beyond the listed price of goods or services and shipping costs is prohibited. Misleading or deceptive advertisements are also banned.

If payment for goods or services fails, the business must arrange a refund within seven days.

The directive also provides for regular monitoring. An inspection officer will be appointed to oversee compliance. Each platform must have an online system to receive consumer complaints. If disputes cannot be resolved at the business level, they will be handled through mediation by the Electronic Trade Dispute Resolution Committee under the department.

Before finalizing the directive, the ministry is collecting feedback from stakeholders. The ministry has requested that suggestions or proposed amendments be sent by email to [email protected] within seven days.

 

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