Government to table E-Commerce Bill protecting small traders

The government will present an E-Commerce Bill to parliament in the coming sitting, according to official statements, marking a key legislative move to protect Malaysia's small and medium-sized traders in the increasingly competitive digital marketplace.

The proposed legislation is designed to establish a more equitable framework for smaller merchants operating online, addressing concerns that they face disadvantages when competing against larger e-commerce platforms and multinational retailers. Officials have indicated the bill will introduce measures to strengthen their position and ensure fair trading practices.

The move reflects growing recognition of the importance of safeguarding local traders as Malaysia's e-commerce sector continues to expand rapidly. Small retailers have increasingly shifted to online channels to reach customers, particularly following the acceleration of digital commerce adoption in recent years.

Parliamentary consideration of the E-Commerce Bill is expected to proceed at the next scheduled session, with officials signaling the government's commitment to creating a more balanced regulatory environment for digital commerce operations across the country.