In accordance with the association agreement with the European Union, Georgia has made significant progress in aligning its legal framework with European standards. One important legislative reform is the protection of consumer rights in electronic commerce. This reform aims to enhance consumer protection, foster business-consumer relations, and boost the country's economy.
With the rise of technology, the digital market is continuously growing, making trading more convenient through e-commerce. Consumers now have greater access to traders and online businesses can offer a wider range of goods and services around the clock. In order to maintain a balance in business-consumer relations, it was necessary to regulate these processes. As a result, the Parliament of Georgia adopted the Law of Georgia on the Protection of Consumer Rights and the Law of Georgia on Electronic Commerce to effectively protect consumers and service recipients in the trade sector. In case of any violations, both legal entities and individuals have the right to seek help from the Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency (GCCA) to protect their rights.
It is important to note that the use of e-commerce in Georgia is increasing day by day. The number of consumers addressing the Agency is increasing constantly. According to statistical data, 70% of consumer statements are related to online shopping.
The GCCA has made several important decisions regarding the violation or potential violation of consumer rights by e-commerce platforms. It's worth noting that, according to European experts, Georgian legislation's alignment with the consumer rights protection directives defined by the Association Agreement with the European Union has increased from 70% to 85% within two years.
For the consumer’s favor, GCCA has signed a commitment agreement with the following intermediary service providers: Glovo, Wolt, Extra.ge, Vendoo.ge, Profy.ge, tkt.ge, and biletebi.ge. These platforms have been directed to fully comply with the law and to restore any rights of consumers that may have been violated during the term stated in the agreement.
As a result of decisions made by the GCCA, consumers will be able to make informed decisions about entering into a contractual relationship.
If you believe that your rights as a consumer have been violated, you can complete a special application form at https://gcca.gov.ge/index.php?m=401 and send it to consumer@gcca.gov.ge. For more detailed information, please call the GCCA hotline at 15 20.
