E-commerce and Q-commerce 2024: Deep Dive into the Information Technology Act, Consumer Protection Act, and FDI Restrictions in India

Welcome back to Couple of Lawyers: Arguments & Thought, the podcast where we tackle the big questions shaping India’s legal landscape, one in-depth discussion at a time. We are Kaustav and Prerana, and today we’re diving into a topic that’s transforming the way we shop, do business, and even think about convenience.In this episode, we’re focusing on E-commerce and the rapid rise of Q-commerce, or quick commerce, in 2024. With the explosion of online shopping and the need for instant delivery, these models have changed the game for consumers and businesses alike. But as these platforms grow, so do the legal complexities—especially under the Information Technology Act, the Consumer Protection Act and Rules, and the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policies that regulate online commerce in India.We’ll explore the key differences between inventory-based and marketplace platforms, unpack why quick commerce is gaining ground so quickly, and discuss the regulatory framework governing these new-age business models. Let’s dive in.