Consumer Rights Protection on E-commerce and Purchasing Agent Platforms

2025-09-26

Introduction

The rise of e-commerce and overseas purchasing agent (代购) platforms has transformed global retail, offering unprecedented access to goods. However, their unique operational models challenge existing consumer protection frameworks like the Consumer Rights Protection Law (CRPL). This article examines how consumer rights are practiced and where gaps persist.

Consumer Rights Framework

China's Consumer Rights Protection Law provides fundamental rights:知情权 (right to information),公平交易权 (fair trade),求偿权 (right to redress), and安全权 (safety). Both traditional e-commerce (e.g., Tmall, JD.com) and代购 platforms must comply, but implementation differs significantly.

Practices in Traditional E-commerce Platforms

  • Information Transparency:
  • Dispute Resolution:
  • Legal Accountability:

Challenges on代购 Platforms

  • Jurisdictional Gaps:代购 agents source goods overseas, blurring jurisdictional lines. Consumers struggle to claim warranties or returns under Chinese law.
  • Information Asymmetry:
  • Accountability Issues:
  • Counterfeit Risks:

Persistent Problems Across Platforms

  1. Data Privacy:
  2. Algorithmic Bias:
  3. Enforcement Inconsistencies:

Recommendations

Strengthening consumer rights requires:

  • Mandating代购 agent registration and platform liability.
  • Cross-border cooperation for dispute resolution.
  • AI-powered monitoring for counterfeit goods and unfair practices.

Conclusion

While traditional e-commerce has integrated CRPL into operational norms,代购 platforms remain a regulatory grey area. Harmonizing international standards with local laws is crucial to safeguarding consumers in the digital economy.

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