The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has announced a comprehensive regulatory campaign to ensure that business owners engaged in "Retail Sales via Internet" activity (ISIC code 4791) adhere to all licensing requirements.
The ministry emphasized that this step is part of its commitment to regulating this sector and protecting the rights of both consumers and merchants, noting that the essential requirements include:
Registering the e-store link: All business owners must accurately enter their e-store link in the "E-store/E-marketplace Address" field within the ministry's registration system.
Providing an effective shopping cart: The e-store must include an efficient shopping cart that enables customers to add products to their carts and complete the purchase process easily.
Providing a secure payment method: The e-store must offer secure online payment options to protect customers' financial data.
Providing clear policies: All e-stores must provide clear policies for returns, exchanges, usage, and data privacy.
Providing a delivery service: E-stores must provide an efficient delivery service for products to customers.
The ministry noted that licensees engaged in online sales are prohibited from using a virtual store to sell any products that require approvals from other government agencies.
The ministry called on all business owners engaged in "online sales" activities to comply with these requirements, emphasizing that necessary legal measures will be applied against violators. Moreover, the ministry highlighted the importance of this decision in regulating the e-commerce sector and protecting consumer rights, and that the ministry will continue its efforts to ensure a fair and transparent business environment in the Kingdom.
For inquiries, please contact the Email: ecommerce@moic.gov.bh or by Phone: 1359008-17574969
