Analysis of Controversies Surrounding the "Refund Only" Clause on E-Commerce Platforms

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jel.202414619

Author(s)

Fei Mao*

Affiliation(s)

Zhejiang Yuying College of Vocational Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China *Corresponding Author.

Abstract

Since the implementation of the "refund only" clause by e-commerce platforms, it has played a positive role in safeguarding consumer rights and encouraging merchants to improve product quality. However, certain issues have emerged during its enforcement: some consumers abuse their civil rights, violating the principles of good faith and fair trading by bypassing merchants and directly applying for refunds through platform rules. This has left merchants in a difficult situation where they lose both money and goods, seriously infringing upon their legitimate rights and interests. This paper analyzes the legal effect of the "refund only" rule on e-commerce platforms and discusses the legal risks it may trigger and the differing viewpoints of court judgments. The essential reason is that loopholes exist in the rule itself, necessitating improvements. This not only involves clarifying the scope of application of the rule but also establishing provisions for punishing malicious refunds and creating an effective complaint and dispute resolution mechanism.

Keywords

Refund Only; E-Commerce Platform; Consumer; Online Trading Platform

References

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