Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Amendment Rules 2026: Key Changes

Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Amendment Rules 2026 strengthen transparency, regulate dark patterns, sponsored listings, pricing, data consent and seller disclosures.

Table of Contents

Context

The Department of Consumer Affairs has amended the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 to strengthen consumer protection, transparency and accountability in the digital marketplace.

About the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Amendment Rules, 2026

Legal Basis: Issued under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Effective From: The amended Rules will come into force on 1 January 2027.
Consumer Grievances: Every e-commerce entity must provide complainants a copy of the complaint recorded by its grievance officer.
National Consumer Helpline: E-commerce entities must participate in the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) convergence mechanism.

Key Provisions

Search Results: Platforms cannot manipulate search results in ways that mislead consumers.
Sponsored Listings: Sponsored or paid listings must have clear and prominent disclosures.
Price Reductions: Both the reduced price and prior price must be displayed; prior price means the lowest price in the previous 30 days.
Dark Patterns: Platforms must comply with the 2023 Dark Patterns Guidelines, conduct an annual self-audit and display a compliance certificate.
Seller Disclosures: Marketplace platforms must provide information on expiry/use-before dates, returns, refunds, warranties, delivery and payment terms.
Consumer Data: Consumer information cannot be used for specified purposes without express and affirmative consent.
Bundled Fees: Platforms cannot charge bundled fees for unrelated services, except specified loyalty or membership programmes.
Imported Goods: Must disclose the importer’s details and country of origin.