Rules for selling online in South Africa

What your website must show (ECT Act s43)

• Your full name or legal name and legal status
• Physical address, phone number and email address
• Registration number, if registered
• A full description of what you sell and the total price including all costs
• How payment works, your delivery terms, and your returns and refund policy
• Your privacy policy and how you protect payment information

Cooling-off rights (ECT Act s44)

For many goods and services bought online, a consumer may cancel within 7 days without a reason. There are exceptions, for example in some cases where the goods are made to the buyer's specifications. Get advice before you rely on an exception.

Consumer Protection Act

• Plain-language terms and honest advertising
• Display prices clearly
• Goods must be of good quality and fit for purpose

POPIA

Collect only the customer data you need, say why you collect it, keep it secure, and only send marketing to people who opted in. Small businesses usually also need a registered Information Officer (registration is with the Information Regulator).

Disclaimer

This is general information, checked October 2026, not legal advice. Read the Acts on gov.za or ask a lawyer for your situation.