3 min read
Pakistan’s online marketplace has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by e-commerce giants, social media ads, and millions of daily shoppers. However, this boom has also brought misleading ads, fake products, privacy breaches, and foreign platforms squeezing out local sellers. In response, the government has introduced the Digital Bill 2025, the first comprehensive framework to regulate e-commerce and digital marketing in Pakistan. The bill aims to make online trade transparent, protect customers, and ensure fair competition for businesses. If implemented effectively, it could reshape the country’s digital economy for the better.
Key Provisions of the Digital Bill 2025
The new law will require every online marketplace, marketing agency, and influencer promoting products to register with authorities. This registration will create an official record of sellers, advertisers, and those responsible for resolving disputes. It also focuses on truth in advertising. No more inflated discounts, hidden charges, or misleading product descriptions. Ads must reflect the actual product, and delivery timelines must be accurate. If you have received a “premium” product online only to find it substandard, this bill targets such practices.
Privacy protection is another key feature. Companies will face strict rules on collecting, storing, and using personal data. Misusing a customer’s phone number, email, or purchase history could lead to penalties.
The bill also demands transparent pricing. Online stores must display the full cost, including taxes, delivery fees, and other charges, before checkout. Return and refund policies will need to be presented in clear, easy-to-understand language.
Urgency Behind Pakistan’s New Digital Law
Smartphone adoption has fueled a surge in online shopping, but consumers still face frequent scams and poor service. Even reputable stores sometimes deliver wrong or low-quality products. Cash-on-delivery scams remain common, and returning items can be slow and frustrating.
Complaints have grown against foreign platforms like Temu and Shein, accused of aggressive discounts that hurt local sellers. The Competition Commission of Pakistan recently flagged Temu for potential anti-competitive practices. The Chainstore Association of Pakistan also warned about the market distortion caused by unregulated foreign platforms.
Potential Gains From the Digital Bill 2025
If enforced properly, the Digital Bill 2025 could protect shoppers from scams and false advertising. Local sellers would compete on fairer terms. Platforms would need to match global standards for transparency and service, and the government could improve tax collection from online trade.
Hurdles to Effective Implementation
Implementation will be the biggest test. Pakistan’s bureaucracy often slows innovation and creates hurdles for startups. Larger companies may adapt quickly, while smaller sellers could struggle to comply with the new rules. Coordination among regulators will be essential to make the law effective.
Future Outlook for Pakistan’s Digital Economy
The Digital Bill 2025 could transform online shopping in Pakistan. It would usher in a new era of accountability, transparency, and strong consumer protection across the digital economy. Shoppers could enjoy a safer and fairer online marketplace, while businesses would compete on equal terms.
However, excessive regulation could slow the innovation that drives Pakistan’s e-commerce growth. For now, attention remains on how the government will turn the Digital Bill’s promise into a practical solution that benefits both consumers and businesses.
