IS 19598:2026

E-Commerce — Principles and Guidelines for Self-Governance

This Indian Standard specifies the principles and guidelines for self-governance in e-commerce operations with the objective of promoting transparency, accountability, and consumer protection in digital marketplaces. It has been developed in response to the rapid growth of e-commerce and the need to establish clear norms that encourage ethical business practices while safeguarding the interests of consumers and other stakeholders involved in online transactions.

It outlines a structured framework for e-commerce transactions, dividing them into three key phases: pre-transaction, contract formation, and post-transaction. It provides guidance on essential aspects such as seller registration and verification, product listing requirements, disclosure of relevant information, and clear display of product and service details to enable informed consumer decision-making. Provisions are also included for obtaining explicit consumer consent, enabling transaction review, issuing order confirmations, maintaining transaction records, and offering secure and diverse payment options.

This also emphasizes post-transaction responsibilities including merchantability of goods, efficient delivery notifications, dispute resolution mechanisms, and transparent policies for returns, cancellations, and refunds. It also highlights broader governance principles such as fair business practices, protection of consumer data, prevention of unsolicited communications, measures against counterfeit products, and compliance with applicable laws.

Overall, it establishes a voluntary framework to promote responsible e-commerce practices, enhance consumer trust, and support the development of a reliable and sustainable digital commerce ecosystem.

Last Updated on March 10, 2026