Business

Ukrainians will be served in retail establishments under new rules. But not yet

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved new rules for retail services to the public. This is reported by the Government portal, Komersant ukrainskyi informs.

The Ministry of Economy explained that the government’s decision establishes clearer and more precise rules for trade, strengthens consumer protection, including in the field of network trade.

But, as the Ministry warned, the new rules will come into force after the end of martial law, when the updated law on consumer protection is fully operational.

“The new rules will really protect consumer rights while promoting business development, fair and healthy competition, and preventing corruption risks. Much attention was paid to the issues of a barrier-free environment, ensuring unimpeded access for people with disabilities and other low-mobility groups to trade and catering establishments. We also took care of creating proper working conditions for employees of retail establishments,” said Deputy Minister of Economy Tetiana Berezhna.

What do the new rules provide for?

– New requirements are set to ensure the accessibility of shops and catering establishments for people with disabilities.

For example, there should be ramps, special parking spaces, and the opportunity to get help from the seller. Mobile retail outlets should not prevent people with disabilities and other low-mobility groups from having access to transportation and other facilities.

– Consumer rights to receive information in digital format about goods and sellers are being expanded.

In particular, such information can be obtained by scanning a QR code in the consumer’s corner. If necessary, the buyer may ask for information in paper form.

– The organization of trade and production in stores is being improved.

For example, the new rules require that retail establishments have separate rooms or places for employees to store things.

– The requirements for the use of measuring devices are being clarified.

For example, scales must be accurate and comply with the requirements of the legislation on metrology and metrological activities.

– The requirements for companies engaged in network trade are defined.

Such companies must have warehouses and sell goods through their agents or deliver them to customers. Online stores must provide full information about the product and the seller. Wholesale trade, including through online stores, is clearly regulated.

– The new rules also prohibit the sale of goods that look like food but are not edible (for example, toys in the form of fruit), as this can be dangerous, especially for children.

What is known about the updated law “On Consumer Protection”

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the new version of this law on July 5, 2023.

The document, in particular, updates definitions and terms and brings them in line with the conditions of modern business, including e-commerce (online trading).

It provides for the introduction of the Unified State Web Portal for Consumers in the Field of E-Commerce (e-Consumer Portal) – an electronic system for collecting, accumulating, processing, protecting, recording and providing consumers with information about e-commerce entities, communication between e-commerce entities and consumers.

An automated system of verified sellers will be created – an information system that is an integral part of the e-Buyer Portal.

The new law also defines consumer rights in case of purchasing an unfit or dangerous food product, etc.