Context:
The Department of Consumer Affairs has released the Draft Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2025, proposing mandatory ‘searchable and sortable filters’ based on the country of origin for all packaged commodities sold through e-commerce platforms.
Key Provisions
- Mandatory Disclosure: Every e-commerce entity selling imported products must provide a searchable and sortable filter indicating the country of origin in product listings.
- Objective:
- To empower consumers with informed purchasing choices.
- To enhance transparency in online marketplaces.
- To reduce search time for identifying product origins.
- Public Consultation: Stakeholders can submit feedback on the draft rules till November 22, 2025.
Country of Origin (CoO) E-commerce Rule :-
About : The “Country of Origin” rule mandates that e-commerce platforms must clearly display the country of manufacture or production for all products listed on their sites.
Legal Basis:The rule is enforced through amendments to the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 and the Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules, 2020.
Significance: It aims to boost domestic MSMEs and ensure transparency. Challenges include defining “origin” for products with global supply chains and ensuring accurate compliance by numerous sellers.
