How China’s new e-commerce law will affect consumers and platform operators

China’s new e-commerce law, passed in August and took effect from January 1, is widely being discussed as it has such great power over sellers and buyers active in the online marketplace. The law was designed to counter the notorious reputation of China as being a bazaar facilitating transactions of copycat and counterfeit products. It makes, not just the merchants, but also platform operators to take joint responsibility for boycotting the circulation of fake goods thus protecting consumers and manufacturers’ benefits and interests.