The Federal Ministry of Trade in Bosnia and Herzegovina is developing a comprehensive e-commerce law aimed at regulating the burgeoning digital market and curbing the shadow economy. With the country reportedly losing over 200 million KM annually due to unregulated online commerce, this initiative seeks to create a safer and more competitive environment for consumers and businesses alike.
Minister Amir Hasičević outlined the key objectives of the new legislation, which include enhancing consumer protection and enabling better competitiveness, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Currently, many platforms operate without adequate consumer rights protections, prompting a need for regulatory oversight.
Additionally, the Ministry plans to collaborate with businesses to establish a national electronic platform designed to facilitate product sales for SMEs, ensuring that these transactions are monitored and supported by the government.
Consumer complaints, particularly concerning online purchases, have surged, with older individuals often falling victim to online fraud due to their limited technological proficiency. The proposed law aims to address these vulnerabilities by providing a clearer framework for online transactions.
While the digital marketplace offers a modern approach to buying and selling, it presents unique challenges compared to traditional retail, including the need for stringent consumer rights enforcement and product quality assurances. Stakeholders, including the eCommerce Association in Bosnia, express skepticism about the feasibility of completely regulating the digital marketplace, noting that legislative measures often lag behind market realities.