Thailand: Implemented ETDA guidelines for managing the sale of goods requiring product standards on digital platform services (no. 4/2567)

On 2 September 2024, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency's (ETDA) guidelines for managing the sale of goods requiring product standards on digital platform services (no. 4/2567) entered into force. The guidelines aim to establish regulations for the sale and advertisement of goods that must meet legally mandated standards on digital platforms, ensuring that these products are credible, comply with the required standards, and prevent any potential harm to consumers. Furthermore, the guidelines aim to help digital platforms implement self-regulation mechanisms, thereby enhancing the reliability and acceptance of electronic information systems. According to the guidelines, digital platforms that serve as marketplaces or provide social commerce functions must verify both the products and the sellers to ensure compliance with the set legal standards, such as the Industrial Product Standards (TISI) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certifications. Before allowing the advertisement or sale of such goods on their platforms, businesses are required to collect relevant certification documents from sellers and verify their identities using government-recognised methods or other certified Identity Providers (IdPs). In addition, the guidelines outline that digital platforms must maintain transparent monitoring and reporting mechanisms for products and sellers. Furthermore, platforms are required to implement systems allowing users to report any suspicious activities or products that do not meet the required standards. In addition, platforms must disclose their policies and procedures for managing these reports, including any algorithmic decision-making or human review processes involved. Moreover, in the event of a request from state agencies, digital platforms must cooperate and provide information related to violations of product standards. Finally, the guidelines emphasise that digital platforms must inform users about their policies for selling and advertising products requiring certification, including displaying certification symbols, such as QR codes, that indicate compliance with TISI or FDA standards.