India’s e-commerce sector is growing rapidly. Its value could reach $325 billion by 2030, and its e-commerce exports were nearly $2 billion in 2024.
This shows a big chance for growth. However, India must fix some key issues to do well in global trade. The government recently shared draft rules for e-commerce platforms.
The rules say platforms must have measures to protect shoppers from fraud. This is good, but India needs a more complete “E-Commerce Policy” to meet global standards. To sell across borders, Indian businesses must follow complex customs and tax laws in different countries.
Drafting a robust e-commerce framework
The World Customs Organisation (WCO) says e-commerce growth has been faster than laws to control it, making the e-commerce supply chain weak in some ways. The WCO has a Framework of Standards to help Customs and government agencies make e-commerce plans.
It has ideas like:
1. Using advanced data to make things safer and easier.
2. Saying what e-commerce businesses are responsible for.
3. Protecting people’s private data.
4. Being fair to sellers, platforms, and buyers.
5. Making cross-border e-commerce safe fairly. India can use existing global rules when making laws for cross-border e-commerce.
A UN tracker shows big differences in countries’ e-commerce laws.
For Example:
– 81% of countries treat paper and electronic deals the same legally.
– 137 out of 194 countries have data protection laws.
– 156 countries have cybercrime laws, but it varies by region. Cybercrime is changing fast, making it hard for police to enforce laws across borders.
Many countries also don’t do enough to protect online shoppers.
To handle these complex e-commerce challenges, India needs strong systems and flexible policies. The government, businesses, experts, and regular people must all work together on complete solutions. E-commerce is clearly growing fast worldwide.
It’s changing how companies and shoppers behave.
India must make thorough laws and rules to benefit from this growth. These will keep businesses and buyers safe and secure.
Photo by Studio Art Smile
