Is the Government Making a ‘Country of Origin’ Filter Mandatory for E-commerce Platforms?
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Synopsis
The Indian government is taking a crucial step to enhance transparency in online shopping by proposing a mandatory 'Country of Origin' filter on e-commerce platforms. This initiative aims to empower consumers with vital information, promote local products, and ensure fair competition in the digital marketplace. Will this change reshape how we shop online?
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Country of Origin filter proposed for e-commerce.
- Enhances consumer empowerment and transparency.
- Aims to support ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
- Public consultation open until November 22.
- Expected to improve compliance monitoring.
New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) The government has put forth a proposal to make it compulsory for e-commerce platforms to feature searchable and sortable filters based on the Country of Origin for packaged goods sold online. This initiative aims to enhance consumer empowerment and transparency in online shopping, as stated by the Consumer Affairs Ministry.
This proposed amendment represents a significant step towards establishing a transparent, consumer-centric, and competitive e-commerce landscape that aligns with national goals and bolsters consumer trust in digital marketplaces.
The Department of Consumer Affairs has released the Draft Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) (Second) Amendment Rules, 2025, suggesting that the Country of Origin filter be made mandatory for online sales.
The amendment draft is currently available for public consultation on the Department's website, inviting feedback from stakeholders until November 22.
The ministry stated, "This amendment is designed to empower consumers to make informed purchasing choices by enabling them to easily determine the origin of products while shopping online."
This proposed feature will allow consumers to search and sort items by their country of origin, thereby improving transparency and minimizing the time necessary to find such information amid extensive product listings.
In the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, rule 6, sub-rule (10) will be amended to include, "Provided that every e-commerce entity selling imported products shall provide a searchable and sortable filter for the country of origin with their product listings."
The ministry emphasized that this amendment supports the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives by making ‘Made in India’ products more accessible, ensuring fair competition for domestic manufacturers, and promoting consumer preference for locally produced goods.
Additionally, the introduction of country-of-origin filters is expected to aid in effectively monitoring compliance, verifying product details, and identifying violations without the need for a manual review of each listing.
Point of View
This proposed amendment to enforce a 'Country of Origin' filter on e-commerce platforms is a strategic move to promote transparency and consumer awareness. By prioritizing local products, the government not only supports domestic manufacturers but also encourages consumers to make informed choices, fostering a fairer marketplace.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 'Country of Origin' filter?
The purpose of the 'Country of Origin' filter is to enhance transparency in online shopping, allowing consumers to easily identify the origin of products and make informed purchasing decisions.
How will the amendment affect e-commerce platforms?
E-commerce platforms will be required to implement a searchable and sortable filter for the country of origin in their product listings, ensuring compliance with the new rules.
What is the deadline for public feedback on the draft amendment?
Public feedback on the draft amendment is invited until November 22, 2025.
How does this initiative support local products?
By making 'Made in India' products more discoverable, the initiative aims to promote local manufacturing and provide a level playing field against imported goods.
Will this change help in compliance monitoring?
Yes, the introduction of country-of-origin filters will assist in monitoring compliance, verifying product information, and identifying violations efficiently.
