Last Updated on by ICT Byte
Nepal’s e-commerce landscape is set for a major transformation as the newly authenticated Electronic Commerce Act 2081 introduces strict regulations on timely deliveries. Under the new law, e-commerce companies failing to deliver goods or services within the specified timeframe will face fines ranging from NPR 20,000 to NPR 100,000.
The Act, recently certified by the President, was officially passed into law on Sunday and will be enforced from Baisakh 2, 2082 (April 14, 2025). With this, the government aims to regulate the growing e-commerce sector, ensuring consumer rights and accountability among businesses.
Key Provisions of the Electronic Commerce Act 2081
Strict Rules for Timely Deliveries
Section 15 of the Act outlines the responsibilities of list-based e-commerce businesses. Clause (c) states that, except in cases of unforeseen circumstances, businesses must deliver goods or provide services within the predetermined time. If they fail to do so, inspection officers have the authority to impose fines as per Section 22.
Similarly, Section 16, which focuses on sellers’ responsibilities, includes a similar provision ensuring that consumers receive their orders on time.
Defining Key Players in E-commerce
The Act categorizes different entities in the e-commerce ecosystem:
- Sellers: Individuals, firms, companies, or institutions that offer goods or services for sale.
- Intermediary Businesses: Those who facilitate transactions via electronic platforms without owning the goods or services.
- List-Based E-commerce Businesses: Companies that list and sell their own goods or services directly to consumers through an online platform.
Offenses Leading to Fines
Businesses failing to comply with the following regulations will be fined between NPR 20,000 and NPR 100,000:
- Operating an e-commerce business without an online platform
- Failing to register business details on the government’s e-commerce portal
- Not providing essential product or service details
- Misrepresenting products or selling unlisted items
- Not maintaining transaction records for the required period
- Selling products through intermediaries without a valid agreement
- Failing to include legally required notices and information on e-commerce platforms
- Delivering orders later than the predetermined time, except in cases of emergencies
What This Means for Consumers and Businesses
For consumers, this Act ensures better service, improved transparency, and timely deliveries from online platforms. For businesses, it demands stricter compliance, ethical operations, and accountability in e-commerce transactions.
With the rapid growth of online shopping in Nepal, this law sets the foundation for a more structured and consumer-friendly digital marketplace. As the implementation date approaches, e-commerce businesses must review their policies and ensure they meet the new legal standards to avoid hefty fines and maintain customer trust.
