How the Digital Commerce Law Affects Online Stores
If you run an online store in Kuwait — whether on Shopify, Salla, Zid, or your own website — Decree-Law No. 10 of 2026 affects many aspects of your business. This article focuses specifically on online stores.
New Requirements for Online Stores
Your "About" Page Must Include:
| Information | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full business name | ✅ Yes | As registered with MOCI |
| Commercial registration number | ✅ Yes | Clear link or number |
| Physical address in Kuwait | ✅ Yes | Even if a virtual office |
| Active email address | ✅ Yes | Must respond within reasonable time |
| Phone number | ✅ Yes | For direct communication |
| Business hours | Recommended | To set customer expectations |
Required Policy Pages
Every online store needs the following pages:
- Return and Exchange Policy
- Return period (7 days, 14 days, etc.)
- Return conditions (product in original condition)
- Who pays for return shipping
- Shipping and Delivery Policy
- Service areas
- Expected delivery times
- Shipping costs
- Privacy Policy
- What data you collect
- How you use it
- Who you share it with
- Terms and Conditions
- Store usage terms
- Sales terms
- Governing law
How the Law Affects Store Operations
Pricing and Offers
| Rule | Application |
|---|---|
| Price transparency | Displayed price must include all fees or clearly state them |
| Discounts | Original price must be genuine — don't inflate then offer a fake discount |
| Limited offers | If you say "limited offer" it must actually be limited |
| Price comparisons | Price comparisons must be real and verifiable |
Product Descriptions
- Descriptions must be accurate and match the actual product
- Photos must truly represent the product
- Technical specifications must be correct
- Country of origin must be stated if required
Order Processing
- Immediate order confirmation
- Shipping notification with tracking number
- Handle delays transparently
- Allow order cancellation before shipping
Quick Compliance Checklist for Stores
- [ ] Complete "About" page with all required information
- [ ] Clear, published return and exchange policy
- [ ] Updated shipping and delivery policy
- [ ] Privacy policy explaining data collection and use
- [ ] Comprehensive terms and conditions
- [ ] Accurate, matching product descriptions
- [ ] Real product photos
- [ ] Transparent, inclusive pricing
- [ ] Clear mechanism for receiving complaints
- [ ] Regular financial and commercial records
Platform Stores vs Independent Stores
| Aspect | Platform store (Salla, Zid) | Independent store (Shopify, custom) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform policies | Platform provides basic policies | Must create from scratch |
| Payment gateway | Platform handles compliance | You're responsible for choosing a compliant gateway |
| SSL certificate | Included | Must install |
| Customer notifications | Platform sends automatically | Must set up |
| General compliance | Platform helps | Your full responsibility |
Note: Even on platforms, you're primarily responsible for your store's compliance. The platform provides tools but doesn't exempt you from legal liability.
Also read: Compliance Checklist | Seller Guide
FAQ
Do I need to shut down my store until I comply with the new law?
No. A transition period is expected. Start gradual compliance now.
Are Instagram stores considered "online stores"?
Yes, if you conduct regular commercial activity through Instagram, you're covered by the law.
How much does compliance cost for a small store?
Most requirements cost nothing — adding policies, updating descriptions, completing information. The main cost is time and effort.
