The Association of Electronic Commerce Operators (ETID) has expressed confidence that new regulations introduced by the Ministry of Trade will support the continued growth of the e-commerce sector in the coming years. The association also believes that implementing these regulatory changes will enhance the industry’s contribution to the economy.
New E-Commerce Regulations Officially Enforced
The amendments to the Regulation on Electronic Commerce Intermediary Service Providers and Electronic Commerce Service Providers have been published in the Official Gazette and are now in effect.
According to ETID’s statement:
“The regulation, prepared by the Ministry of Trade, introduces significant changes to compliance requirements for electronic commerce platforms and intermediary service providers. These amendments are expected to streamline e-commerce operations and foster a more competitive marketplace.”
Key Changes in the Regulation
- Verification Requirements Adjusted: Intermediary service providers will no longer be required to verify the information provided by service providers in calendar years when no product listings are made. Additionally, the Registered Electronic Mail (KEP) verification requirement has been removed, and the verification period has been extended throughout the year.
- Cancellation and Penalty Terms Revised:
- The right of withdrawal cannot exceed the limits set by the Consumer Protection Law unless explicitly stated in the intermediary agreement or pre-approved by the seller.
- Penalty conditions cannot be imposed via internal communication channels without documented justification.
- Data Accessibility for Sellers: Sellers will be allowed free and efficient access to their sales-related data during and up to one year after the expiration of their intermediary agreements.
- Advertising and Discount Budgets Adjusted:
- The exemption threshold for sponsorship expenses covered by advertising budgets has been increased from 25% to 50%.
- Large-scale e-commerce platforms are prohibited from conducting excessive discounts that eliminate competition in the market.
- Discounts aimed at supporting socially disadvantaged groups will not be counted within the intermediary service providers’ discount budgets if pre-approved by the Ministry.
- International Sales Oversight Strengthened: Intermediary service providers must maintain records and documentation for transactions declared as international sales and ensure compliance with audits and reporting requirements.
ETID: Regulatory Framework Will Strengthen the E-Commerce Sector
ETİD emphasized its commitment to monitoring the implementation of these regulations:
“We believe that these e-commerce regulations introduced by the Ministry of Trade will support the ongoing growth of the sector. Implementing these amendments effectively will increase the industry’s economic impact. As ETİD, we will closely follow these developments on behalf of the industry.”
These regulatory changes mark a significant shift in Türkiye’s e-commerce landscape, aiming to promote fairness, competition, and consumer protection while ensuring a more structured and sustainable market.
Source: Foreks/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök