Maxim Ali has provided his comments to Vesti FM on potential changes to consumer law

The Russian Parliament has passed at second reading changes to the federal law on consumer protection, which introduces liability for price comparison websites when providing inaccurate or incomplete information about goods or services. The draft new law also provides consumers with a right to claim refunds from websites in the event that the ultimate seller fails to perform its duties on time.

According to the Head of the IP/IT Practice at Maxima Legal, Maxim Ali, the proposed amendments do not increase comparison websites’ liability but broaden it:

“Comparison websites under the new law are liable only to the extent that it distorted information received from the seller and passed on to the consumer. For example, the website did not publish all information about the goods which were relevant to a purchase and as a result the consumer purchased goods that were suitable. However, if the goods are simply defective, then the claim should be made against the seller. It is possible that comparison websites will start to more clearly outline the goods and services offered to reduce the risk of incurring liability”, commented Maxim during Vesti FM’s broadcast.

For the full version of Maxim’s comments, please see the website of Vesti FM.