New Delhi, Sept. 14 -- Industry executives and merchants have raised concerns that the government's amended e-commerce rules, while aimed at strengthening consumer protection and transparency, could increase the compliance burden on small sellers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that make up a large share of online marketplace sellers.

The Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, notified by the Department of Consumer Affairs, will come into force from January 1, 2027. The amended framework includes disclosure of ranking parameters, sponsored listings, a new 'prior price' requirement for discount claims, compliance with the 2023 dark patterns guidelines and mandatory partnership with the National Consumer ...