The ministry has started implementing an evaluation for numerous e-stores using an automated evaluation system based on artificial intelligence technology to conduct assessments based on 11 criteria, aiming to ensure the compliance of e-stores with the specified standards.
The ministry recently announced a new program to assess e-traders using artificial intelligence systems as part of its efforts to ensure the compliance of these traders with standards and to protect the rights of customers. This coincided with the celebration of World Consumer Rights Day, which carried the theme “Responsibility and Fairness of Artificial Intelligence towards Consumers,” as reported by the “Economy” newspaper.
The ministry stated that the goal of the evaluation process is to improve the level of compliance, ensure the protection of customer rights, and increase compliance in e-stores within the Saudi market. It also aims to give merchants the opportunity to understand the evaluation of their e-store and improve this evaluation by adhering to the set standards.
The ministry clarified that the adopted criteria for determining the level of compliance of e-stores include several key points: firstly, the store must be officially registered on the Saudi Business Center platform. Secondly, it must work to protect user data and privacy through a clearly defined policy on the website. Thirdly, a policy for exchange, return, and refund of payments must be available and clearly stated on the store. Fourthly, it must provide a policy for handling customer complaints and suggestions effectively and clearly.
The required standards include displaying the commercial registration number and necessary permits on the front end of the e-store, in addition to showing the tax number, and ensuring that the store’s link is officially listed within the commercial register. It should also ensure that the institution is free of any outstanding violations and provide a clear explanation of consumer rights and responsibilities regarding shipping and delivery within the store. Additionally, the website should be secure and of high quality in terms of speed and user-friendliness, and should have a link supporting cybersecurity (https). Finally, effective communication channels for customer service should be available under the slogan “Contact Us” on the store.
