Bahrain implements new regulations on virtual commerce, expands scope and new limits for vendors

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Online vendors in Bahrain are adjusting to a revised regulatory framework following a directive from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce This new measure allows holders of a virtual commercial licence to sell 71 different products online, though 12 specific items remain off-limits.

To qualify for a virtual commercial licence, applicants must be Bahraini nationals operating as sole proprietors with a permanent address.

Once licensed, vendors can enter the online marketplace, but certain products, such as food and beverages, medical devices, and heavy machinery, are prohibited.

Restricted list

The restricted list also includes industrial chemicals, tobacco, petroleum and gas products, fertilisers, live animals, waste materials, and weapons — items that typically require special approval.

For aspiring online chefs, the regulation sets out three key conditions: the commercial registration number must be clearly displayed on the chef’s website or platform; cleanliness standards during food preparation must be upheld; and the safety of food, ingredients, and all related processes must be up to scratch.

Chefs may sell directly to consumers or partner with restaurants, hotels, and other establishments.

The regulation also expands the range of products and services that can be offered online.

Offerings

From textiles and tailoring to electrical installations and antique stamp collecting, the online marketplace now accommodates a wide array of offerings.

Art galleries, equestrian supplies, software publishing, and public relations services are also permitted. Opportunities are available in fashion design, photography, tourism, and interior design, as well as educational support, theatrical production, beauty services, and animal care. However, virtual commercial licence holders are still barred from employing foreign labour under these regulations.

Directive

This directive also revokes three previous regulations: Decision No. 152 of 2016, which allowed commercial activities through virtual outlets; Decision No. 11 of 2021, which regulated online chef activities; and Decision No. 12 of 2021, which covered online sales through virtual outlets.

In summary, the updated regulation grants Bahraini entrepreneurs greater freedom to explore the digital marketplace while maintaining strict controls over specific sectors. The landscape of online commerce in Bahrain is evolving — ensuring compliance with these guidelines is essential.