The digital marketplace in Nepal is booming, but with opportunity comes responsibility. If you’re planning to launch or already running an online store, registering your e-commerce business has become mandatory under Nepal’s new E-Commerce Act, 2081 (2025). This law was introduced to bring trust, security, and accountability to Nepal’s fast-growing online economy.

At Shrigo.com, we guide entrepreneurs like you to start legally, avoid penalties, and build sustainable online businesses. Here’s everything you need to know:

Why Register Your E-Commerce Business in Nepal?

The E-Commerce Act 2081 clearly states that no individual, firm, or company can operate an online business without legal registration. Registration ensures:

•  Customer Trust: Buyers are more likely to purchase from a registered business.
• Legal Protection: Protects you from disputes, fraud, and unfair trade practices.
•  Smooth Banking & Payments: Essential for integrating online payment gateways like Khalti, Fonepay, or bank transfers.
• Avoiding Penalties: Operating without registration can lead to fines ranging from NPR 20,000 to 500,000, and even legal action.

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Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

Before registration, decide whether you’ll operate as:

• Sole Proprietorship (Private Firm) – for small businesses.
• Partnership Firm – if multiple owners are involved.
• Private Limited Company – for startups aiming to scale.

Each requires different documents, but all must comply with the law.

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Step 2: Establish Your E-Commerce Platform

The law requires every e-commerce business to have an online platform. This can be:

• Your own website or mobile app, or
• Selling through an existing marketplace (Daraz, SastoDeal, etc.) if you’re a small or home-based seller.

Your platform must display clear details such as:

• Business name, address, and registration number
• PAN/VAT number
• Contact details (phone, email, social media)
• Return/refund policies
• Delivery timelines and charges

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Step 3: Register on the Government E-Commerce Portal

The Department of Commerce, Supply and Consumer Protection has launched a central E-Commerce Business Portal. Every online business must register here by submitting:

• Business registration certificate (from OCR or local authority)
• PAN/VAT certificate
• Owner/Director details (Name, Citizenship/ID)
• Business contact details (phone, email, social links)
• Outlet/branch information (if any)

👉 Once approved, you’ll receive a unique registration number to display on your website or platform.

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Step 4: Follow Key Compliance Rules

Under the new law, your business must also:

• Provide clear product/service details (price, warranty, delivery time, origin, etc.)
• Ensure secure payment methods and issue invoices.
• Protect customer data and privacy.
• Offer refunds and returns if goods don’t match descriptions.
• Respond to complaints within 15 days.

Failure to follow these rules can lead to penalties or suspension of your license.

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Step 5: Run Your Business Legally & Grow

Registering isn’t just about avoiding fines – it’s about building a long-term, trusted brand in Nepal’s digital market. A registered e-commerce business can:

• Partner with banks and fintech companies
• Attract bigger investors
• Expand internationally with credibility

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Final Thoughts

The year 2025 marks a turning point for Nepal’s e-commerce industry. With the new E-Commerce Act, the government is pushing for transparency, consumer rights, and fair competition. If you’re running or planning an online store, the best time to register is today.

At Shrigo.com, we make it easier for you to launch and grow your e-commerce business legally. From guiding you through the registration process to helping you set up your online store, we’ve got you covered.