MUSCAT: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) strongly emphasized the need to obtain a license before engaging in marketing and promotional activities on websites and social media platforms.
This directive is in accordance with the regulations set forth in December 2022, under Ministerial Decision 619/2022. The regulations cover various electronic marketing and promotion methods, including writing, drawing, images, symbols, sound, or any other means on websites or social media.
The Department of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce reports that between March and October 2023, a total of 1,080 licenses were issued. The primary goal of these regulations is to oversee the marketing and promotion of products, goods, and services on social media, ensuring the protection of merchants and consumers while safeguarding e-commerce transactions and customer rights.
Hanan bint Humaid al Jabriya, Head of the E-Commerce Department, emphasized the Ministry's commitment to regulating these activities due to their increasing prevalence and economic impact. To maintain integrity and prevent misleading content, individuals interested in online promotion must obtain a license before commencing any activity. Exceptions are made for non-profit activities and merchants conducting activities for goods or services they sell themselves.
Continuous monitoring and follow-up by the Ministry have led to action being taken against violators of the regulations. The Ministry has also issued alerts to practitioners who fail to display their licensed activity number on websites and social media accounts.
Abdullah bin Salem al Ghafri, a keen social media marketer, noted that these regulations facilitate cooperation among merchants, consumers, and promoters, preventing potential violations and commercial fraud. Obtaining a license is seen as a regulatory measure that preserves rights and prevents fraudulent practices, he said.
Social media blogger Mervat bint Youssef al Nasr acknowledged the positive impact of obtaining a license, boosting self-confidence and ensuring the transparency of e-commerce methods. The regulations, she said, protect the rights of merchants, consumers, and promoters.
Basma bint Hussein al Lawati, an online influencer, echoed these sentiments, noting that the regulations have brought organization and legal clarity to electronic marketing and promotion businesses. The evolving laws of the Ministry aim to create a conducive environment for investment, both local and foreign, in the Sultanate of Oman.
The Ministry's regulations seek to create a regulated and transparent environment for electronic marketing and promotion activities, fostering a balance between the interests of merchants, consumers, and promoters while encouraging investment and growth in e-commerce.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
