E-Business Association criticizes latest restrictions imposed on e-commerce and home delivery
According to the E-Business Association of Nepal (EBAN), the prohibitory order released on 2nd June 2021 does not sufficiently address provisions concerning the easing of home delivery services despite multiple rounds of discussion with the respective authorities. EBAN has criticized the current restrictions, particularly referring to the outdated definition of essential products and the restricted operating times, limited till 9 am in Kathmandu valley, saying it negatively affects consumers as well as thousands of small and medium businesses affiliated with e-commerce platforms.
President of E-business association Mr. Sagar Bhattarai says “The E-business association and its member companies have always been committed to following all safety measures imposed by the government—maintaining 2-meter distance; equipping delivery workers with sanitizers, gloves, masks; constantly monitoring the health of staff. We offer a safer alternative to the general public. Allowing home delivery services for all goods helps in preventing the further spread of the virus. It eases the sufferings of many small and medium businesses operating through e-businesses and keeps the economy going. Thus, I urge the government to address our concerns for the greater good of society.”
As pandemic lockdown has continued for over a month since it was imposed on 29th April 2021 work-from-home necessities like stationery, mobiles and computers have become as essential to consumers as food and clothing. However, the authorities in charge have not taken sufficient steps to address the need for such goods to students, office workers, and other members of the general population. Most businesses have been hit hard by the restrictions due to COVID-19. If e-commerce companies were allowed to deliver in general, not limited to few product groups, this problem could be solved, while at the same time ensure the safety of consumers who can avoid leaving their house.
Countries and respective governments across the globe have been heavily promoting e-commerce and home delivery due to its evident benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, including neighboring India, Bangladesh, Pakistan. Such countries have not imposed any curb on home delivery ensuring the safety of consumers while boosting the domestic economy. Allowing home delivery will restrict the movement of people for buying various items and would support in implementing the government’s mandate on following COVID-19 protocol.
According to EBAN, restricting ecommerce and home delivery services in terms of operating times and availability of products is completely ignoring international best practices. Thus, the Government should strongly facilitate home delivery, which will uplift communities and encourage small business affected by the pandemic given that e-commerce and home delivery companies will act as a support pillar in bringing the economy back on track during the pandemic.
