Tunisia's parliament reviews draft law to regulate social media e-commerce

Tunisia's Assembly of the Representatives of the People (ARP) is continuing its examination of a proposed law aimed at regulating marketing and promotional activities conducted through websites and social media platforms. This legislative effort, already discussed in multiple sessions with various stakeholders, seeks to establish a clear framework for e-commerce conducted via social networks.

The commission's president, Sami Raïs, noted that the Ministry of Commerce has submitted written observations. The ministry contends that existing commercial legislation already addresses this sector and announced plans to develop its own e-commerce strategy by 2030. However, Raïs deemed this approach too slow, given the swift international and national evolution of e-commerce.

Raïs emphasized the necessity of specific legal oversight to safeguard both merchants and consumers operating in the online marketplace. He also highlighted the critical importance of incorporating personal data protection for customers into any legislation governing online commerce, acknowledging the growing risks associated with digital platforms.

The commission is now faced with a decision: either to conduct a more in-depth review of the draft law or to forward it to a plenary session for broader debate and potential adoption. The outcome will shape the future of digital commerce regulation in Tunisia.