In a historic move, Nepal has passed its first-ever e-commerce law, a significant step after 25 years of unregulated online business. The Parliament approved the E-Commerce Bill on Sunday, aiming to bring order to the country’s rapidly expanding digital marketplace. The new law introduces crucial regulations, holding online platform operators accountable for legal compliance. Those failing to meet the requirements face penalties, including fines ranging from Rs 300,000 to Rs 500,000, or a prison sentence of up to three years.
One of the key provisions of the bill focuses on consumer protection. It grants customers the right to return defective or incorrect products, ensuring better service standards. Additionally, businesses are required to update product details within 48 hours of any changes, providing transparency in the online shopping process. Payments made to delivery agents on behalf of traders will also be recognized as valid, improving trust in the payment system.
Although consumer rights groups and e-commerce entrepreneurs have hailed the law as a long-overdue step, experts argue that it still lacks key provisions on price competition and data privacy. These gaps remain critical concerns as Nepal’s e-commerce industry continues to grow, with stakeholders urging the government to refine the legislation further.
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