Government Enhances E-Commerce Regulations: Key Changes on Price Transparency and Dark Patterns Explained
The Indian government has amended the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, to enhance regulations for online marketplaces. These changes focus on price transparency, search results, and consumer complaints, while also addressing deceptive design practices. The revised rules will take effect on January 1, 2027.
Key Changes
The amendments introduce several significant changes. E-commerce platforms must now display both the reduced price and the “prior price” when announcing discounts. The prior price refers to the lowest price at which goods or services were offered in the 30 days preceding the discount.
Additionally, e-commerce entities are prohibited from manipulating search results in a way that misleads users. Sponsored listings must be clearly identified, allowing consumers to distinguish them from regular search results. Compliance with the 2023 guidelines on dark patterns is mandatory, and platforms must conduct annual self-audits and display a compliance certificate.
Other requirements include providing consumers with a copy of their complaints, participating in the National Consumer Helpline, and disclosing key product information such as best before dates and return policies. For imported goods, details about the importer and country of origin must be provided. Furthermore, platforms cannot use consumer data for specified purposes without explicit consent, and they are restricted from collecting bundled fees for unrelated services, except in loyalty programs.
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