Nepal’s New E-Commerce Law: What Online Sellers & Entrepreneurs Need to Know

After 25 years since Nepal’s first online store launched, a landmark E-Commerce Bill has finally been passed by Parliament. This is a major step forward for the digital economy — and especially important for online sellers, startups, and micro-entrepreneurs navigating the online marketplace.

This blog, created in collaboration with Munim Consulting Group, breaks down what the new law means, what you need to do to stay compliant, and how you can get started with official registration and support.

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What the New E-Commerce Law Covers

The Electronic Commerce (E-commerce) Bill officially recognizes and regulates online buying and selling in Nepal — including how platforms operate, how sellers list products, and how consumers are protected.

Here’s what you need to know as a business owner or aspiring e-commerce entrepreneur:

1. Mandatory Registration

• All e-commerce platforms must register with the Department of Commerce, Supplies, and Consumer Protection.

• Non-registered businesses face fines from Rs10,000 to Rs50,000.

• Registration is required even for micro and cottage enterprises using third-party platforms like Daraz, SastoDeal, or Facebook/Instagram shops.

Need help registering? Contact Munim Consulting Group for guided registration and compliance services.

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2. New Refund and Return Policy (Stronger Buyer Protection)

• Buyers can demand refunds if:

  • The item doesn’t match the description (design, image, weight, etc.).

  • The item is defective or delivered late.

  • There are warranty/guarantee mismatches or origin discrepancies.

Sellers are legally obligated to honor refund requests under these conditions.

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3. Payment Clarity: Transporter = Trader

• Customers can pay either the seller directly or the transporter delivering the goods.

• Payments made to delivery agents are now legally considered payments to the trader — reducing confusion and fraud.

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4. Contract Is Formed Automatically on Checkout

• When a buyer places an order, a legal contract is formed — and any breach (e.g., wrong item, no delivery, etc.) could be actionable.

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5. Seller Agreements Must Be Written or Digital

• Platforms that host third-party sellers (marketplaces) must have agreements with sellers in either written or online form.

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 Who Does This Law Affect?

• Existing Online Store Owners (websites, apps, social media stores)

• Marketplaces that host or promote seller products

• Facebook/Instagram Resellers

• Micro and Cottage Entrepreneurs using digital platforms

• Logistics & Delivery Services that accept payments

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What Doesn't Count as E-Commerce?

Platforms that only advertise or promote products, without facilitating the sale, are not considered e-commerce businesses under the law.

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Why This Matters for You

“This is the most awaited e-commerce law,”
— Bishnu Prasad Timilsina, Forum for Protection of Consumer Rights-Nepal

The law comes after years of complaints about fraud, damaged goods, and lack of refunds. If implemented well, this can restore trust in online shopping and open doors for small sellers to scale with confidence.

But you must comply — and that starts with proper registration and documentation.

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Need Help Navigating the Law? Register With Munim

Whether you're launching your online store or transitioning to full legal compliance, Munim Consulting Group is here to help.

They offer:

• ✅ Business registration for e-commerce

• ✅ Tax and compliance support

• ✅ Consulting on platform setup, logistics, and refund policies

• ✅ Long-term advisory for scaling your digital business

Get in touch with Munim today to avoid penalties and set your online business on a legally solid foundation.

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Final Thoughts

Nepal’s digital economy is entering a new phase — one where trust, transparency, and compliance are no longer optional. For sellers and aspiring entrepreneurs, this is the moment to formalize, professionalize, and scale your digital venture.

Don't wait to be fined. Register and secure your business now.