Key IT-Related Laws in Sri Lanka and the Protection of Consumers of E-Commerce by Anomi Wanigasekera and Sabeera Shariff: As e-commerce continues to grow globally, Sri Lanka is emerging as a significant market with its own unique challenges and legal considerations. In this article, Anomi Wanigasekera, Partner & Head of IP, and Sabeera Shariff, Senior Associate at Julius & Creasy, explore the key IT-related laws in Sri Lanka that are designed to protect consumers in the rapidly evolving digital marketplace.
E-commerce in Sri Lanka is regulated by several laws, including the Consumer Affairs Authority Act (CAAA), the Electronic Transaction Act (ETA), and the Computer Crime Act (CCA). The CAAA outlines directives for e-commerce entities and platform operators to ensure that consumer rights are protected at all stages of the transaction. These directives are essential for preventing deceptive practices and ensuring that consumers are well-informed throughout the purchasing process. Anomi Wanigasekera and Sabeera Shariff
With the rise of cybercrimes and the increasing importance of data protection, Sri Lanka has taken significant steps to address these issues. The Personal Data Protection Act, enacted in 2022, introduces statutory rights for individuals and imposes obligations on entities that collect and process personal data. Additionally, the upcoming Cyber Security Bill is expected to establish a regulatory authority responsible for overseeing cyber security matters in Sri Lanka, further strengthening the legal framework.
Despite the existing legal protections, the rapid pace of technological advancement has created new challenges that current laws may not fully address. Issues such as IP violations on the internet, the use of e-money, the metaverse, and artificial intelligence are areas where Sri Lanka’s legal framework needs to evolve to keep pace with global trends.
As Sri Lanka's e-commerce market continues to grow, updating the legal framework is crucial to ensure effective regulation and protection for consumers. The country’s efforts in data protection and cyber security are positive steps, but further legal advancements are necessary to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies and digital commerce.
Please read The Full Article By Anomi Wanigasekera and Sabeera Shariff in Our Latest Edition on The Women's IP Annual 2024
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