Elevating Consumer Confidence: Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Cross-Border Dispute Resolution in ASEAN’s Digital Marketplace
Date:
30 December 2024Category:
ASEAN, Innovation and TechnologyType:
Policy BriefsTags:
digital economy, digital marketplace, e-commerce, online consumer protection policy, ASEANPrint Article:
ASEAN’s rapidly growing digital economy underscores the urgent need to safeguard online consumers. As internet and e-commerce usage soar, robust consumer protection mechanisms are essential to address the risks inherent in digital transactions. This Policy Brief explores the current state of online consumer protection in ASEAN, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive legal and policy frameworks that span all stages of online transactions. Drawing on the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan on Consumer Protection and existing legislative measures, it identifies significant gaps in coverage and enforcement. The analysis emphasises the importance of pre-contractual information duties in fostering transparency and consumer trust. Key policy recommendations include the establishment of minimum protection standards for digital platforms, the development of thorough pre-contractual regulations, and the creation of an interoperable ASEAN Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) network. These measures aim to enhance consumer confidence, ensure a secure digital marketplace, and align ASEAN’s practices with international standards.
