Mandatory ‘Country of Origin’ Filter on E-commerce Platforms

Context: The Ministry of Consumer Affairs (MoCA) has proposed the Draft Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2025, introducing a mandatory “Country of Origin” filter on e-commerce platforms.
This aims to enhance consumer transparency and empower buyers to make informed decisions before purchasing any packaged product online.

Key Provisions of the Draft Amendment

• E-commerce platforms will need to include a searchable and sortable filter displaying the country of origin for each packaged product.
• This provision will be added under Rule 6(10) of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011.
• It ensures buyers can distinguish between domestic and imported goods prior to purchase.
• Applies to all listed items, including those under private or foreign labels.

Rationale

1. Consumer Empowerment: Enables transparency in digital marketplaces, strengthening the Right to Information for consumers.
2. Fair Competition: Supports local producers and artisans amid global tariff hikes (for instance, the US doubling import tariffs on select Indian goods in 2025).
3. Policy Alignment: Reinforces India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and “Make in India” vision.
4. Global Norms: Brings India’s e-commerce labelling standards closer to international consumer protection practices.

About the Legal Metrology Framework

• The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, regulate labelling, packaging, and disclosure norms for pre-packed goods.
• The rules mandate clear information on manufacturer details, quantity, price, and expiry.
• Dual MRP for the same product is prohibited.
• Enforcement lies with State Legal Metrology Departments and the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Impact

• For Consumers: Greater clarity and ethical choice in online shopping.
• For Businesses: May increase compliance cost but enhances brand credibility.
• For Governance: Bridges regulatory gaps between traditional retail and digital platforms.
• For the Economy: Encourages domestic manufacturing and boosts consumer trust in “Made in India” products.

Conclusion

The move represents a forward-looking step in India’s evolving digital consumer protection regime. By mandating transparency at the point of purchase, the government ensures that consumers remain active participants in market fairness and sustainability.