Online Shopping New Rules 2027 in India
Online Shopping New Rules 2027 in India
Important: As of October 12, 2026, proposed rules and confirmed government notifications must be distinguished. Do not describe a proposed change as a new law that will definitely take effect in 2027.
9 major online shopping rule changes from January 1, 2027
1. More transparent discount prices
When a price reduction is advertised, the platform must show the reduced price and the prior price, defined as the lowest price offered during the preceding 30 days. This should help shoppers evaluate sale claims.
2. Clearer sponsored product listings
Paid product placements must be identified with clear, prominent disclosures so customers can distinguish advertising from ordinary search results.
3. Fairer search results
E-commerce platforms must not manipulate search results in ways that mislead users or undermine relevance to their search queries. Platforms must also disclose key ranking factors.
4. Restrictions on unrelated bundled fees
Marketplace platforms face restrictions on collecting bundled fees for services unrelated to the shopping platform, subject to the specified exception for loyalty or membership programmes.
5. Clearer return and refund information
Sellers and platforms must provide relevant information about returns, refunds, exchanges, warranties, delivery and payment methods. This does not mean every product must have an unconditional return policy.
6. More information about imported products
Importer details and country of origin must be disclosed for imported goods covered by the rules.
7. Greater protection for consumer information
Marketplace platforms cannot use consumer information for specified purposes without express and affirmative consent.
8. Stronger complaint handling
Consumers must receive a copy of the complaint recorded by the grievance officer. E-commerce entities must also participate in the National Consumer Helpline’s convergence process.
9. Annual checks for deceptive online designs
E-commerce entities must comply with India’s dark-pattern prevention guidelines, conduct annual self-audits and prominently display a compliance certificate.
What should online shoppers do?
– Compare the displayed discount with the product’s recent price history.
– Check the seller, warranty, delivery fees and return conditions before paying.
– Read sponsored-listing labels and product reviews carefully.
– Save invoices, order confirmations and complaint reference numbers.
– Report unresolved consumer grievances through the official National Consumer Helpline
Official source
Read the Government of India’s announcement: Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules amended — Press Information Bureau. The amendments are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.