European Union to Tighten Control Over E-commerce Platforms

The European Union (EU) is preparing to implement measures to enhance oversight of e-commerce platforms such as Temu, Shein, and Amazon Marketplace $AMZN. These initiatives aim to prevent the sale of dangerous and prohibited goods on the internet.

The reform proposal outlines new regulations whereby online platforms will be required to provide product data before goods enter EU countries. This will enable customs authorities to perform more thorough inspections and tracking of packages.

1. Mandatory Data Submission: Online platforms will need to supply detailed product information, facilitating their verification and tracking during customs processing.

2. Platform Accountability: Unlike the current practice where the buyer acts as the importer, the new rules will assign responsibility to platforms for ensuring product compliance with European standards.

3. EU Compliance: Platforms will be mandated to collect duties and VAT, as well as ensure adherence to all other EU product regulations.

E-commerce Platforms Under Scrutiny

These measures are driven by concerns over the safety of products purchased online. European regulators are working to minimize risks to consumers buying products that do not meet EU regulations.

- Consumer Protection: The stricter rules are designed to enhance the protection of European consumers from potentially hazardous or prohibited goods.

- Level Playing Field: Platforms will be required to follow the same regulations as local retail businesses, creating a level playing field for all market participants.

Impact on Online Trade

The new regulations are expected to significantly impact the operation of e-commerce platforms:

- Rising Costs: The additional obligations related to data provision and compliance with European standards will demand more resources and expenses from platforms.

- Increased Transparency: The new system will foster greater transparency in the supply chain, aiding in effectively combating counterfeit and dangerous products.

- Process Adaptation: Platforms will need to adapt their logistical and administrative processes to meet the requirements of the reform.

The EU’s stringent measures on online trade are aimed at boosting consumer safety and creating equal conditions for all market participants. Although these changes may require considerable effort and resources from platforms, they also contribute to increased consumer trust and overall product safety.