Govt proposes mandatory ‘Country of Origin’ filter on e-commerce sites to boost transparency

The Department of Consumer Affairs has proposed making it mandatory for e-commerce platforms to include a searchable and sortable filter based on the ‘Country of Origin’ for all packaged commodities sold online.

The proposed amendment seeks to ensure that consumers can easily identify the country of origin of products while shopping online, helping them make informed purchase decisions.

According to a draft notification issued on Monday, the proposal forms part of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) (Second) Amendment Rules, 2025.

Under the draft rules, e-commerce entities selling imported products will be required to provide “a searchable and sortable filter for the country of origin” in their product listings.

The government said the step is designed to enhance transparency, reduce the time spent by consumers in finding product origin details, and promote fair competition between domestic and imported goods.

The Department said the proposed change is also in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local campaigns by making “Made in India” products more easily discoverable. It will help domestic manufacturers gain equal visibility alongside imported goods and encourage consumers to opt for locally produced alternatives.

The draft amendment has been published on the Department’s website for public consultation.

Comments and suggestions from stakeholders have been invited until November 22, 2025, at the email addresses listed in the notification.

Officials said the move will also aid in monitoring compliance and verifying product information on online marketplaces, without requiring manual scrutiny of each listing.

“This proposed amendment marks another important step toward building a transparent, consumer-friendly, and competitive e-commerce ecosystem that aligns with national priorities and enhances consumer trust in digital marketplaces,” the release said.