This document outlines the Chrome Web Store's policy updates concerning the identification and verification of "trader" and "non-trader" statuses for developers, driven by the European Union's New Deal for Consumers. Effective May 28, 2022, online marketplaces, including the Chrome Web Store, are required to inform consumers whether they are contracting with a professional trader or an individual, impacting applicable consumer rights. Subsequently, from February 17, 2024, the Chrome Web Store began collecting and verifying identifying information from traders, such as legal name and contact details, making this information accessible to users to foster transparency and informed decision-making in transactions.
Chrome Web Store: Trader/Non-Trader Developer Identification and Verification Policy
(Non)-Trader Transparency Requirement (Effective May 28, 2022): The Chrome Web Store now requires developers to disclose their status as either a "trader" or "non-trader" to comply with the EU's New Deal for Consumers.
Purpose: This requirement ensures consumers are informed about the identity of the party they are contracting with, allowing them to understand if consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection laws apply.
Definition of Trader: Any natural or legal person acting for purposes relating to their trade, business, craft, or profession in marketplace contracts.
Definition of Non-Trader: Any natural or legal person acting for purposes outside of their trade, business, craft, or profession in marketplace contracts.
Consumer Rights for Non-Traders: If a developer is a "non-trader," consumers will be informed that consumer rights from consumer protection laws do not apply to contracts made with that developer.
Developer Responsibility: It is the developer's responsibility to accurately self-declare their trader/non-trader status.
Trader Verification (Effective February 17, 2024): The Chrome Web Store now collects and maintains verified information about traders operating on its platform.
Information Collected: This includes legal name, contact details, and potentially other relevant identification documents.
Public Availability: The verified information of traders is available to Chrome Web Store users.
Key Takeaway: These policies aim to provide consumers and other businesses with the necessary information to make informed decisions when engaging with traders on the platform.