DefinePK hosts the largest index of Pakistani journals, research articles, news headlines, and videos. It also offers chapter-level book search.
Title: Consumer Protection in Digital Environment in Pakistan
Authors: Yasir Arfat, Naveed Hussain, Usama Mukhtar
Journal: Dialogue Social Science Review (DSSR)
| Category | From | To |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 2024-10-01 | 2025-12-31 |
Publisher: Collaborative Educational Learning Institute
Country: Pakistan
Year: 2024
Volume: 2
Issue: 5
Language: English
Development of technology and specifically information technology has changed the way things were done and dealt in past. Buying and purchasing feature of humans is as old as making being basic need and necessity. Various measures had also been taken to protect the interest of parties. In a contract of sale, the seller focusses on consideration which is mostly certain like a specific currency and quantum of that very currency but the purchaser is uncertain about many things like quality, durability, originality and certainty. Law of consumer protection deals with the buyers of commodities and services to ensure that they are not exploited by the sellers and service providers. With the evolution of information technology and digitalization these contracts are taking place online and to ensure the protection of consumer rights has become more complex especially in transnational commercial activities. The present research study has highlighted that what are the possible issues that may arise with a focus on protection of consumer rights. In online transactions and week jurisdictions like Pakistan it is double edged sword that on one end customer do not find appropriate remedies and on the other end consumer activism brings a bad name for those enterprises who are really concerned about their name and repute. Tips have been provided that how good businesses can avoid unnecessary litigation and bad repute. It has also been suggested that consumer courts must realize the importance of online consumers because that is need of time and that saves a lot of energy, resources and cost. During the era of Covid 19 it importance was multiplied so these online consumers deserve same level of protection like on the counter consumers.
To highlight the issues arising with a focus on the protection of consumer rights in online transactions within Pakistan's digital environment, and to suggest improvements for a more robust legal framework and consumer protection mechanisms.
This study is a qualitative analysis based on a review of existing literature, legal frameworks, and policies related to consumer protection in Pakistan's digital environment. It examines the evolution of e-commerce, current consumer laws, challenges faced by online consumers, and proposes solutions.
graph TD;
A["Literature Review & Policy Analysis"] --> B["Identification of Issues in Digital Consumer Protection"];
B --> C["Analysis of Existing Legal Framework"];
C --> D["Assessment of Consumer Court Role"];
D --> E["Identification of Loopholes and Challenges"];
E --> F["Formulation of Proposed Solutions"];
F --> G["Conclusion and Recommendations"];
The rapid growth of e-commerce in Pakistan has outpaced the development of its legal framework, leaving online consumers vulnerable to fraud, deceptive practices, and privacy breaches. While consumer courts exist, their effectiveness in the digital realm is limited by jurisdictional ambiguities and the need for specialized e-courts. The digital divide also exacerbates these issues, particularly for women and minorities.
Existing consumer laws in Pakistan do not adequately address the complexities of online and transnational e-commerce transactions. There is a lack of clear regulations, specific representation for e-consumers, and robust data protection laws. Consumer courts face challenges with territorial jurisdiction and the efficiency of dispute resolution for online cases.
Strengthening consumer protection in Pakistan's digital environment requires a multi-pronged approach, including legislative reform to specifically address online transactions, the establishment of e-courts, enhanced data protection measures, and increased consumer awareness. Collaboration between government, businesses, and consumers is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring the sustainable growth of the digital economy.
* The Punjab Consumer Protection Act was enacted in 2005. (Confirmed by text)
* World Consumer Rights Day is March 15. (Confirmed by text)
* The Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) was enacted in 2016. (Confirmed by text)
Loading PDF...
Loading Statistics...