Goods are seen being piled up at storage of a logistics company in China. (Photo/Xinhua)
China's administration of Industry and Commerce issued a draft refund policy for online shopping on Wednesday. The policy was issued to solicit public opinion.
This move aims to solve the persistent problems of after-sale service. Online shopping has become a major part of daily life in China.
The policy is based on the current law of Protection of Consumers' Rights. It gives more detailed regulations in the context of online shopping.
The draft lays out that customers can refund products purchased online within seven days. The customer can return products without giving reason and they must be responsible for the return shipping fee.
There are seven types of products not regarded as refundable: fresh or perishable goods like fruits and meat; audiovisual products downloaded or unfolded; digital products like computer software; newspapers and periodicals; products that change or undermine people's health once unpacked; products largely devalued after activated or used; and products that the customer is aware have expired or are flawed.
Liu Junhai, an expert from China's Renmin University, said the draft policy details the range of items that are not suitable for return. These items should reduce the conflict between the customers and shops during the refund.
The draft policy said a product that is unpacked by the customer but remains in good condition and with trademarks or accessories on it is still refundable. The merchant can face penalties if they refuse to refund customers because the products were still unpacked after fifteen days.
The draft also adds that any gifts from the merchant must be returned together with the purchased products, or customers must pay for the gifts before obtaining a refund.
