The Russian government has begun finalizing a draft law that aims to reform how online commerce is governed within the country. Reports indicate that one notable idea in the proposal is to replace the currently used term marketplace with a different label, reflecting a shift in how digital trading platforms are described and regulated. This change in terminology signals a broader effort to align regulatory language with evolving business models and consumer expectations across e commerce in Russia.
The so called marketplace bill that reached the Council of Ministers outlines several structural shifts for trading platforms. One key provision would allow platforms to adjust the terms of engagement with sellers more often than once per year. In practical terms this could translate to more frequent updates to fee structures, service levels, and contract clauses that govern seller relationships. The move is framed as a way to keep pace with rapid changes in the online sales landscape, including shifts in consumer demand, seasonal buying patterns, and the dynamics of supply chains that can fluctuate quickly in today’s market environment.
Another major point under discussion is the removal of any formal cap on how often platforms can alter the bidding agreements with their partners. Proponents argue that imposing strict limits on how often terms can be changed may hinder a platform’s ability to reflect current market realities. Opponents, however, warn about the potential for erosion of seller protections and the risk of unpredictable costs and conditions that could surprise small businesses or drive out less resilient participants from the market.
Officials contend that restricting the frequency of contract adjustments could prevent platforms from accurately accounting for volatile factors such as price volatility, supply shortages, or sudden shifts in demand that influence tariffs and commissions. They emphasize that a dynamic regulatory approach is necessary to ensure that price settings remain competitive and transparent, while still preserving the essential safeguards that support fair dealing between marketplaces and sellers. The goal, as described by the ministers, is to strike a balance between flexibility for platforms and stability for traders who rely on predictable costs to plan inventory and marketing strategies.
Another portion of the proposal seeks to curb punitive actions by marketplaces against counterparties. Specifically, there is a push to ban practices that fine sellers for performance issues or suspend their access to accounts as a means of disciplining partners. The rationale offered is to promote a healthier operating environment where disputes can be resolved through mediation and standard dispute resolution channels rather than through unilateral penalties that can disrupt a seller’s business. Critics of this approach caution that it may lessen accountability if not paired with clear performance metrics and transparent process rules that protect both sides involved in a transaction.
Commentary from government figures has highlighted the continued growth of online commerce within the nation. Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov has underscored the expansion of digital trade as a strategic priority, pointing to the sector’s contribution to the economy and to job creation. In parallel, discussions have revived attention to safety and risk management within the supply chain. A previous statement from Viktor Evtukhov, who formerly led the Ministry of Industry and Trade, referenced the need to strengthen safeguards around facilities akin to large warehouses of prominent players. The mention comes in the wake of a high profile incident in St. Petersburg and is meant to reassure both regulators and market participants that warehouses and logistics infrastructure will be subject to rigorous oversight. Observers note that this focus on logistics resilience is part of a broader effort to build trust in online shopping and to encourage investment in technology, automation, and compliant operating practices. The overall message is that the government intends to create a more resilient, transparent, and fair online marketplace ecosystem that benefits consumers while supporting legitimate sellers and platform operators.