Invitation to Register in e-Commerce Seal System (eFada)

The information Systems Directorate at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (“MOIC”) have launched an eCommerce Seal System, allowing e-commerce entities to obtain an officially granted seal which may be displayed on e-stores and e-marketplaces (“eFada”), evidencing the e-store and e-marketplace is registered and active in the records of the MOIC and authorised to practice e-commerce in Bahrain. Such eFada system has been launched as an important initiative in the eCommerce national strategy in Bahrain to enhance confidence and trust in e-commerce discipline in Bahrain.

For entities which undertake a relevant e-commerce activity and practice e-commerce through an up and running e-commerce platform (website or mobile application), the MOIC has now confirmed that such entities may now apply for the eFada seal here and follow the steps that are outlined in the following guidance issued by the MOIC here.

Please note that the entities must have:

1. an ‘active’ Commercial Registration (CR) (i.e., with the status of ‘active’ appearing on the CR).

2. an up and running e-commerce platform (website or mobile application). The e-commerce platform must:
(a) have a secure e-payment method;
(b) have a Refund and Exchange policy, Terms of Use, and Data Protection policy;
(c) have an active shopping cart; and
(d) offer delivery service to customers.

3. Failure to submit the ESR Annual Return to the MOIC by the timeframe mentioned above may result in the imposition of violations against the Commercial Registration (CR) of a company.

What should you do next?

In order to benefit from the eFada seal, your Bahrain based entity may register via the link mentioned above.

How can we help?

As the leading law firm in the Middle East & North Africa Region and with strong corporate structuring experience across all industry sectors in the region, Al Tamimi & Company is well placed to assess the impact of the Rules on your organisation and assist you in complying with the Resolution, including working with you to apply for the eFada seal.

If you would like to further discuss the contents of this update, and find out what it means for your business, please contact Al Tamimi & Company in Bahrain.