Asia & Asia-Pacific Legal Notices
AqNova Marketplace Policies & Disclosures
AQNOVA MARKETPLACE
Global Legal Footer Framework
Comprehensive Compliance & Platform Governance Reference
LEGAL NOTICES & COMPLIANCE DISCLOSURES
Australia (Priority) | India | Japan | South Korea | Singapore | Regional Provisions
Effective Date: April 7, 2026 | Version 1.0 | Arivon Holding Corporation
| ⚠ IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS MANDATORY LEGAL NOTICES AND REGULATORY DISCLOSURES REQUIRED UNDER THE LAWS OF ASIA AND ASIA-PACIFIC JURISDICTIONS. THESE DISCLOSURES APPLY TO ALL USERS OF THE AQNOVA PLATFORM IN THESE MARKETS, INCLUDING BUYERS, VENDORS, AND VISITORS. THE RIGHTS DESCRIBED CANNOT BE WAIVED OR LIMITED BY CONTRACT. WHERE MANDATORY NATIONAL LAW PROVIDES GREATER PROTECTIONS THAN THESE TERMS, THOSE MANDATORY RIGHTS APPLY AND ARE NOT AFFECTED BY AQNOVA'S PLATFORM TERMS. |
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This Asia & Asia-Pacific Legal Notices document ("Asia-Pacific Notices") contains all mandatory regulatory disclosures, compliance statements, and legal notices required of AqNova Marketplace, operated by Arivon Holding Corporation ("AqNova," "we," "us," "our"), in connection with its commercial operations across the Asia and Asia-Pacific region. AqNova currently operates in or serves users in Australia (priority market), India, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore as its primary Asia-Pacific markets, with ongoing expansion across Southeast Asia and the broader region.
The Asia-Pacific region is home to some of the world's fastest-growing digital economies and most sophisticated regulatory frameworks for e-commerce, data protection, and consumer protection. AqNova's compliance framework is designed to meet the full spectrum of applicable legal obligations across these diverse markets, from Australia's non-excludable consumer guarantee regime to Japan's detailed Specified Commercial Transactions Act requirements.
These notices supplement and are incorporated into the AqNova Platform Terms & Conditions (Section 2). Mandatory Asia-Pacific law prevails over any conflicting Platform terms for users in the applicable jurisdiction.
| Section 9.6 — Document Structure PART A — REGIONAL FRAMEWORK 9.6.1 Asia-Pacific Regional Legal Overview 9.6.2 Pan-Regional E-Commerce & Digital Economy Standards PART B — COUNTRY-SPECIFIC LEGAL NOTICES 9.6.3 Australia — Full Legal Framework (PRIORITY) 9.6.4 India — Full Legal Framework 9.6.5 Japan — Full Legal Framework 9.6.6 South Korea — Full Legal Framework 9.6.7 Singapore — Full Legal Framework PART C — CROSS-MARKET OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORKS 9.6.8 Digital Payments — Asia-Pacific Framework 9.6.9 Product Safety & Standards — Asia-Pacific 9.6.10 Tax Compliance — Asia-Pacific Digital Economy 9.6.11 AML/CTF — Asia-Pacific Framework 9.6.12 Asia-Pacific Consumer Rights — Minimum Standards 9.6.13 Data Protection — Asia-Pacific Summary PART D — DISPUTE RESOLUTION & CONTACTS 9.6.14 Dispute Resolution — Asia-Pacific 9.6.15 Asia-Pacific Contact Directory |
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9.6.1 Asia-Pacific Regional Legal Overview
The Asia-Pacific region presents one of the world's most legally diverse e-commerce environments. Unlike Europe, where the EU has harmonized significant portions of consumer protection, data protection, and digital platform law, Asia-Pacific countries each maintain distinct national frameworks that reflect their unique legal traditions, constitutional structures, and development priorities. AqNova's compliance framework addresses this diversity through a country-by-country approach, supplemented by the following regional frameworks:
| Regional Framework | Relevance to AqNova |
|---|---|
| ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA — under negotiation) | The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, expected to be finalized by 2025–2026, will establish the region's first comprehensive digital trade framework, covering e-commerce, data flows, digital payments, and consumer protection for the 10 ASEAN member states. AqNova monitors DEFA developments and positions its Singapore operations as a DEFA-ready gateway to Southeast Asia. |
| ASEAN Consumer Protection Framework (ACPF) | The ASEAN Coordinating Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCCP) framework provides a basis for regional consumer protection cooperation. AqNova applies ACPF consumer protection principles (safety, information, redress, education) across all ASEAN market operations. |
| APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) System | The APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules system provides a voluntary framework for cross-border personal data transfers between participating APEC economies (including Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and others). AqNova applies CBPR-aligned data protection standards for cross-border data flows within the APEC region. |
| RCEP — Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership | The RCEP, in force since January 2022, is the world's largest free trade agreement covering Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and the 10 ASEAN nations. RCEP's e-commerce chapter includes provisions on electronic authentication, consumer protection in e-commerce, and cross-border data flows. AqNova's Asia-Pacific trade and e-commerce practices are designed to be RCEP-compliant. |
| OECD Digital Economy Guidelines (Australia, Japan, South Korea) | Australia (2005), Japan (2018), and South Korea (2020) are OECD members. Their digital economy regulations are significantly influenced by OECD guidelines on e-commerce, data protection, and competition policy. AqNova applies OECD-aligned standards in these markets. |
| FATF — Financial Action Task Force (Asia/Pacific Group) | AML/CTF compliance in Asia-Pacific is guided by FATF Recommendations and implemented through the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) for most markets. AqNova applies risk-based KYC and AML standards consistent with FATF requirements across all Asia-Pacific markets. |
9.6.2 Pan-Regional E-Commerce & Digital Economy Standards
Across all Asia-Pacific markets in which AqNova operates, the following platform-wide standards apply:
Language accessibility: AqNova provides Platform access and key consumer communications in English across all Asia-Pacific markets, with Japanese (日本語) for Japan, Korean (한국어) for South Korea, and Simplified Chinese (中文简体) or relevant local languages for applicable markets as regional expansion proceeds.
Currency pricing: AqNova displays prices in local currencies — Australian Dollar (AUD), Indian Rupee (INR), Japanese Yen (JPY), South Korean Won (KRW), and Singapore Dollar (SGD) — where technically feasible, providing transparent pricing for Asia-Pacific consumers.
Data protection baseline: All personal data of Asia-Pacific users is processed in compliance with the applicable national data protection law of the user's country of residence, with APEC CBPR standards applied as a cross-border minimum.
Consumer protection baseline: AqNova's 30-day return policy and Buyer Protection Program apply as a minimum standard across all Asia-Pacific markets, supplemented by applicable mandatory national consumer rights.
Product safety: All products sold to Asia-Pacific consumers must comply with applicable national product safety standards, certification requirements, and regulatory authorization mandates in the destination market.
🇦🇺 AUSTRALIA
Priority Market — Comprehensive Legal Framework
| Australia — AqNova Priority Market Compliance Overview Australia is AqNova's highest-priority Asia-Pacific market. Australian law provides consumers with non-excludable statutory guarantees that represent some of the strongest consumer protections in the Asia-Pacific region. Key regulatory bodies overseeing AqNova's Australian operations: — Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) — Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) — Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) — Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) — for payment oversight — Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA) — Australian Border Force (ABF) — customs — Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) — health products — Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) — food products — National Measurement Institute (NMI) — product measurement & labeling — Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) AqNova Australia contact: australia@aqnova.co |
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A. Australian Consumer Law (ACL) — Competition and Consumer Act 2010, Schedule 2
The Australian Consumer Law (ACL), contained in Schedule 2 to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth), is administered and enforced jointly by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the fair trading agencies of each State and Territory. The ACL applies to all consumer transactions in Australia, including all transactions conducted through AqNova's Platform by Australian consumers. The ACL's consumer guarantees are non-excludable, non-modifiable, and cannot be limited or waived by contract — any purported limitation is void.
| ACL — Mandatory Consumer Guarantees (Cannot Be Excluded by Contract) The following guarantees apply automatically to all goods sold to Australian consumers through the AqNova Platform: 1. ACCEPTABLE QUALITY (ACL s. 54): Goods must be safe, durable, free from defects, acceptable in appearance and finish, and fit for all purposes for which goods of that kind are commonly supplied. 'Acceptable quality' is assessed by reference to a reasonable consumer who is fully acquainted with the state and condition of the goods. 2. FITNESS FOR A DISCLOSED PURPOSE (ACL s. 55): Where the buyer expressly or impliedly makes known to the supplier a particular purpose and relies on the supplier's skill and judgment, goods must be fit for that purpose. 3. MATCH DESCRIPTION (ACL s. 56): Goods must match any description applied to them in listings, advertising, or pre-purchase communications. 4. MATCH SAMPLE OR DEMONSTRATION MODEL (ACL s. 57): Where goods are sold by reference to a sample or demonstration model, the goods must correspond with that sample or model. 5. REPAIRS AND SPARE PARTS (ACL s. 58): Suppliers must ensure that facilities for repair and spare parts are reasonably available for a reasonable time after supply, where this would be expected. 6. EXPRESS WARRANTIES HONORED (ACL s. 59): Any express warranty given by a supplier must be honored. 7. CLEAR TITLE (ACL s. 51): The supplier must have the right to sell the goods, and the buyer will receive undisturbed possession and title free of undisclosed security interests. |
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ACL Remedies — Major vs. Minor Failures
The ACL distinguishes between major and minor failures in relation to consumer guarantees, with different remedies available in each case:
| Failure Type | Consumer's Remedies Under ACL |
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| MAJOR FAILURE (ACL s. 260) | A failure is 'major' if: the goods would not have been acquired had the consumer been fully aware of the failure; the goods depart significantly from the description; the goods are substantially unfit for a disclosed purpose; the goods are substantially unfit for any purpose for which goods of that kind are commonly supplied; or the goods are unsafe. REMEDY: The consumer may (at their choice): (a) reject the goods and demand a full refund; OR (b) reject the goods and demand replacement goods of the same type and similar value; OR (c) keep the goods and seek compensation for the difference in value. |
| MINOR FAILURE (ACL s. 259) | A failure that is not major — e.g., a minor defect that can be repaired. REMEDY: The Vendor may choose to repair the goods within a reasonable time. If the Vendor fails to repair within a reasonable time, or declines to repair, the consumer may: (a) reject the goods (refund or replacement); or (b) have the goods repaired elsewhere and claim reasonable costs; or (c) seek compensation. |
| Consequential loss (ACL s. 259(4)) | In addition to the above remedies, a consumer who suffers loss or damage as a result of a failure to comply with a consumer guarantee may recover damages from the Vendor for consequential loss, unless the Vendor can prove the loss arose from a cause independent of human control after the goods left its possession. |
| Time limits for rejection | The right to reject goods for a major failure does not apply after: (a) a reasonable time for inspection and trial; or (b) where the goods have been altered by the consumer or destroyed. |
B. ACL Unfair Contract Terms (UCT) — Schedule 2, Part 2-3
The ACL's Unfair Contract Terms (UCT) regime applies to standard form consumer contracts and, since November 9, 2023, has been significantly strengthened by the Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022. Key changes that affect AqNova's Platform Terms:
Expanded coverage: The strengthened UCT regime now covers standard form small business contracts as well as consumer contracts, capturing vendor-platform agreements where the small business threshold applies.
Civil penalty regime: Under the 2023 amendments, including or relying on an unfair contract term is now illegal and subject to civil penalties — up to AUD $50 million for bodies corporate, or the greater of 3x the benefit obtained or 30% of turnover during the breach period.
What is an unfair term: A term is unfair if it would cause significant imbalance in the parties' rights and obligations; it is not reasonably necessary to protect the supplier's legitimate interests; and it would cause detriment if relied on. Examples include: terms that allow one party to unilaterally vary the contract; limit liability for a party's own breach; allow one party to terminate but not the other; or impose disproportionate penalties.
AqNova's response: AqNova's Platform Terms & Conditions are reviewed for UCT compliance with specific attention to Australian consumer law. Terms applicable to Australian consumers are designed to avoid the categories of unfair terms identified by the ACCC and ASIC. Any term that would be void under ACL UCT provisions is not enforced against Australian consumers.
C. Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) — Priority Compliance
The Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) ("Australian Modern Slavery Act") requires entities based in Australia, or carrying on business in Australia, with an annual consolidated revenue of AUD $100 million or more to submit an annual Modern Slavery Statement to the Australian Border Force's Online Register. AqNova monitors its Australian revenue thresholds and will comply with this requirement when the reporting threshold is met.
| Modern Slavery Act 2018 — AqNova Compliance Commitment CURRENT STATUS: AqNova monitors its consolidated Australian revenue against the AUD $100 million reporting threshold. Modern Slavery Statement will be filed when the threshold is met. VOLUNTARY COMMITMENT (Below Threshold): Even below the mandatory threshold, AqNova voluntarily: — Screens all Vendors against modern slavery risk indicators during onboarding. — Requires Vendors to represent and warrant that their supply chains are free from forced labor, child labor, and human trafficking. — Conducts enhanced supply chain due diligence for Vendors in high-risk product categories and high-risk sourcing geographies. — Maintains a supplier code of conduct addressing modern slavery, child labor, forced labor, and human trafficking. — Reports confirmed supply chain violations to the ACCC and AHRC where required. MANDATORY STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS (when threshold is met): — Filed annually by 31 December for the prior financial year. — Must cover: AqNova's structure, operations, and supply chains; risks of modern slavery practices; actions taken to address those risks; effectiveness assessment; consultation process; and any other relevant information. — Published on the Australian Government's Modern Slavery Register. — Modern Slavery Statement accessible at: [aqnova.co/legal/modern-slavery-au] |
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AqNova's Modern Slavery Act compliance applies to AqNova's own operations and to the supply chains of Vendors who supply AqNova or who use AqNova's Platform to sell to Australian consumers. Vendors who become aware of modern slavery risks in their supply chains are required to notify AqNova at compliance@aqnova.co. AqNova will not knowingly facilitate the sale of goods produced through forced labor, child labor, or human trafficking on its Platform.
D. Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) & Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)
The Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), administered by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), applies to AqNova's collection, use, and disclosure of personal information of Australian individuals. The Act is currently under comprehensive review following the Attorney-General's Department's Privacy Act Review Report (2022), with significant reforms expected.
| Australian Privacy Principle (APP) | AqNova's Implementation |
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| APP 1 — Open and transparent management of personal information | AqNova maintains a clear, accessible Privacy Policy (Section 3 of the Platform Governance Documents) setting out how personal information is managed. The policy is available in plain English at [aqnova.co/legal/privacy-policy]. |
| APP 2 — Anonymity and pseudonymity | Where lawful and practicable, AqNova offers users the option to interact without identifying themselves (e.g., browsing without registration). AqNova does not require individuals to identify themselves beyond what is necessary for the services requested. |
| APP 3 — Collection of solicited personal information | AqNova collects only the personal information reasonably necessary for AqNova's functions. Collection is by lawful and fair means with the individual's knowledge and, where required, consent. |
| APP 4 — Dealing with unsolicited personal information | Where AqNova receives unsolicited personal information it could not have collected under APP 3, AqNova destroys or de-identifies that information as soon as practicable, unless it is contained in a Commonwealth record. |
| APP 5 — Notification of collection | AqNova notifies individuals of the collection of personal information at or before the time of collection, or as soon as practicable after, via the Privacy Policy and point-of-collection notices. |
| APP 6 — Use or disclosure of personal information | AqNova uses or discloses personal information only for the primary purpose of collection, or with consent, or where a secondary use or disclosure exception applies. Marketing use requires opt-in consent. |
| APP 7 — Direct marketing | AqNova does not use or disclose personal information for direct marketing without consent. Each marketing communication provides a clear, functional opt-out mechanism. Australian recipients may opt out at any time. |
| APP 8 — Cross-border disclosure | Before disclosing personal information to overseas recipients, AqNova takes reasonable steps to ensure the recipient complies with the APPs. AqNova is accountable for the overseas recipient's handling of the information. |
| APP 9 — Adoption, use or disclosure of government related identifiers | AqNova does not adopt government identifiers (e.g., Tax File Numbers) as its own, and only uses them where permitted. |
| APP 10 — Quality of personal information | AqNova takes reasonable steps to ensure personal information it collects, uses, or discloses is accurate, up to date, complete, and relevant. |
| APP 11 — Security of personal information | AqNova takes reasonable steps to protect personal information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorized access, modification, and disclosure. AqNova destroys or de-identifies personal information when no longer needed. |
| APP 12 — Access to personal information | Individuals may request access to personal information held about them by contacting privacy@aqnova.co. AqNova responds within a reasonable period (generally 30 days) and provides access unless an exception applies. No charge for access to personal information. |
| APP 13 — Correction of personal information | Individuals may request correction of personal information that is inaccurate, out of date, incomplete, irrelevant, or misleading. AqNova responds within a reasonable period and notifies third parties of corrections where required. |
OAIC Complaints & Privacy Act Reform
Australian individuals who believe AqNova has interfered with their privacy may first raise a complaint with AqNova at privacy@aqnova.co. If the complaint is not resolved to the individual's satisfaction, they may complain to the OAIC at oaic.gov.au/privacy/privacy-complaints. The OAIC may investigate, conciliate, or make a determination. AqNova cooperates fully with OAIC investigations.
AqNova monitors the ongoing Privacy Act reform process and will update its Australian privacy practices to comply with any new requirements introduced by the anticipated Privacy Act amendments, including proposed direct rights of action for individuals, a statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy, and strengthened enforcement powers for the OAIC.
E. Competition and Consumer Act 2010 — Additional Provisions
Beyond the ACL consumer guarantees and UCT regime, the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) imposes obligations on AqNova in relation to:
Misleading or deceptive conduct (ACL s. 18): AqNova must not engage in conduct in trade or commerce that is misleading or deceptive, or is likely to mislead or deceive. This applies to all representations made on the Platform, in advertising, and in communications with users. Vendor product listings that are misleading or deceptive may render both the Vendor and AqNova liable.
False representations (ACL ss. 29–30): AqNova and its Vendors must not make false representations about products, including false claims about quality, performance, sustainability certifications, or country of origin.
Unsolicited supply and pyramid schemes (ACL ss. 35–44): AqNova does not engage in unsolicited consumer agreements or pyramid selling schemes.
Anti-competitive conduct (CCA Part IV): AqNova does not engage in cartel conduct, misuse of market power, or exclusive dealing that substantially lessens competition. AqNova's marketplace model is designed to promote competitive pricing and vendor selection.
F. Australian Customs & Import Compliance (ABF)
Cross-border shipments to Australian addresses are subject to the requirements of the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Customs Act 1901 (Cth). Key requirements include:
De minimis threshold: Goods with a customs value of AUD $1,000 or less imported by an individual are generally exempt from customs duties (but may be subject to GST under the Low Value Imported Goods (LVIG) rules). Goods above AUD $1,000 are subject to applicable customs duty rates under the Customs Tariff Act 1995.
Low Value Imported Goods (LVIG) GST (Treasury Laws Amendment (GST Low Value Goods) Act 2017): Foreign suppliers (including online marketplaces) making supplies of low-value imported goods (customs value AUD $1,000 or less) to Australian consumers are required to register for and remit Australian GST. AqNova registers for Australian GST under the simplified registration regime and collects and remits GST on qualifying supplies.
Prohibited and restricted imports: Certain goods are prohibited from importation into Australia (including controlled substances, weapons, and goods infringing Australian IP rights) or require import permits (biological materials, certain food items, therapeutic goods, CITES-listed species). Vendors must ensure compliance with ABF import requirements for their product categories.
Biosecurity Act 2015: Biological materials, food items, and agricultural products are subject to biosecurity assessment at the border. Vendors must declare any biosecurity-sensitive goods and obtain required DAWE (Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment) import permits before listing such goods for Australian delivery.
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Therapeutic goods, medicines, medical devices, and complementary medicines must be registered or listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) before being sold in Australia. Vendors must hold valid TGA registration for applicable products.
G. GST & Australian Tax Compliance
AqNova's Australian tax compliance obligations include:
ABN (Australian Business Number): AqNova holds, or is applying for, an ABN for its Australian operations. AqNova's ABN: [To be updated upon registration with the Australian Business Register].
GST Registration: AqNova is registered (or required to register) for Australian GST under the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999. AqNova's GST registration number: [To be updated].
LVIG GST collection: AqNova collects and remits 10% GST on qualifying low-value imported goods supplies to Australian consumers under the LVIG regime.
Electronic Distribution Platform (EDP): AqNova may qualify as an EDP under the LVIG rules, in which case AqNova (rather than the underlying Vendor) is responsible for GST collection on qualifying sales.
Australian Taxation Office (ATO) digital platform reporting: AqNova complies with ATO reporting obligations for digital platform operators, including the sharing economy reporting regime and applicable vendor income reporting.
H. Financial Services & Payments — ASIC & RBA
AqNova's payment processing in Australia is conducted through Australian Financial Services (AFS) licensee or exempt payment service provider partners regulated by ASIC and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). AqNova does not hold an AFS licence itself and does not provide financial services or financial products directly to Australian consumers. AqNova's payment acceptance in Australia includes:
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, eftpos): All card transactions through ASIC-regulated, PCI-DSS compliant payment processors.
PayID / Osko (New Payments Platform — NPP): AqNova accepts NPP-based real-time bank transfers where available through payment processor partners. Settlement within seconds.
Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal): Available through integrated payment processors.
BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later): Where AqNova integrates BNPL services (Afterpay, Zip, Klarna), the BNPL provider holds applicable regulatory approvals. BNPL providers are regulated as Credit Licensees under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 (NCCP Act) as amended by the Credit Legislation Amendment (Provisions) Act 2023.
🇮🇳 INDIA
English | Growing Digital Economy Market
| India — AqNova Compliance Overview India is one of the world's fastest-growing e-commerce markets. AqNova serves Indian consumers and vendors in compliance with India's consumer protection, data privacy, e-commerce, and financial regulatory frameworks. Key regulatory bodies: — Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) — consumer protection — National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) — Data Protection Board of India (DPBI — under DPDPA 2023) — Reserve Bank of India (RBI) — payments — Enforcement Directorate (ED) — foreign exchange — SEBI — securities (for investor-facing communications) — Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) — Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) — Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) — GST Council / CBIC — tax compliance AqNova India contact: india@aqnova.co |
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A. Consumer Protection Act 2019 & E-Commerce Rules 2020
The Consumer Protection Act 2019 (CPA 2019) and the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules 2020 (as amended in 2021) establish India's comprehensive consumer protection framework for e-commerce platforms. These rules impose significant obligations on marketplace e-commerce entities (such as AqNova) and on sellers/vendors operating through marketplace platforms.
| CPA 2019 / E-Commerce Rules Provision | AqNova's Compliance Obligations & Indian Consumer Rights |
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| Marketplace entity obligations (Rule 5, E-Commerce Rules 2020) | AqNova must: (a) establish a grievance redressal mechanism with a Grievance Officer; (b) provide a mechanism for consumers to withdraw consent; (c) not manipulate search results to favor its own goods; (d) not implicitly or explicitly pressure consumers to purchase; (e) ensure goods offered for sale comply with applicable laws; and (f) not engage in restrictive trade practices. |
| Grievance Officer (Rule 5(7)) | AqNova has appointed a Grievance Officer for India. Contact: grievance-india@aqnova.co. Complaints must be acknowledged within 48 hours and resolved within 30 days of receipt. The Grievance Officer's name, contact details, and working hours are displayed on the Platform's India-specific contact page. |
| Country of Origin Disclosure (Rule 6, E-Commerce Rules 2020) | All imported goods listed on the Platform for Indian consumers must display the Country of Origin clearly on the product listing page. This requirement applies to all products — domestic and imported. |
| Seller information disclosure (Rule 6) | AqNova must provide each seller's legal name, address, and contact details on the product listing page and order confirmation. AqNova must maintain accurate seller records and make them available to consumers and government authorities upon request. |
| Consumer right to redress (CPA 2019 s. 2(9)) | Indian consumers have the right to seek redress against unfair trade practices or restrictive trade practices, and to be compensated for products found to be defective. AqNova's Buyer Protection Program provides the primary redress mechanism, supplemented by the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) and consumer courts. |
| Product liability (CPA 2019 Chapter VI) | Manufacturers, product service providers, and product sellers are strictly liable for harm caused by defective products. AqNova may be jointly liable as a product seller where it sells through the Platform. AqNova requires all Vendors to carry adequate product liability coverage. |
| Misleading advertisements (CPA 2019 s. 2(28)) | Misleading advertisements and false endorsements are prohibited. AqNova's listing compliance review system screens for misleading claims. CCPA may issue cease and desist orders and impose penalties of up to INR 10 lakh for first violation and INR 50 lakh for subsequent violations on the manufacturer/endorser. |
| Consumer Commission complaints | Indian consumers may file complaints with: District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (claims up to INR 50 lakh); State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (INR 50 lakh to INR 2 crore); National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (above INR 2 crore). The National Consumer Helpline is available at 1800-11-4000 or consumerhelpline.gov.in. |
B. Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 (DPDPA)
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 (DPDPA) was enacted by the Indian Parliament in August 2023 and represents India's first comprehensive data protection law. The DPDPA establishes rights for Data Principals (individuals) and obligations for Data Fiduciaries (entities processing personal data), governed by the Data Protection Board of India (DPBI). The implementing rules are expected to be finalized during 2024–2025.
| DPDPA 2023 — AqNova Compliance Framework AqNova's role: Data Fiduciary for personal data of Indian Data Principals. AqNova India Data Contact: privacy@aqnova.co KEY PROVISIONS: — Consent: AqNova obtains free, specific, informed, unconditional, and unambiguous consent from Indian users for processing personal data beyond legal obligations. Consent requests are in plain language; separate from other terms. — Notice: Prior to seeking consent, AqNova provides notice of: what data is collected; purpose of processing; rights of Data Principals; and how to withdraw consent. — Data Minimization: Only personal data necessary for the specified purpose is collected. — Data Accuracy: Reasonable efforts to ensure data is accurate and complete. — Storage Limitation: Personal data retained only as long as necessary for stated purpose. — Security: AqNova implements reasonable security safeguards to prevent data breaches. — Breach Notification: AqNova will notify the DPBI and affected Data Principals of personal data breaches in the manner and form to be specified by the DPBI in rules. — Grievance Redressal Officer: AqNova will designate a Grievance Redressal Officer under the DPDPA, who will also fulfill the E-Commerce Rules Grievance Officer role. |
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Data Principal Rights Under DPDPA 2023
Indian Data Principals have the following rights under the DPDPA, exercisable by contacting privacy@aqnova.co:
Right to access (s. 11): Summary of personal data being processed; identities of data fiduciaries and processors to whom data has been disclosed; and any other information as may be prescribed.
Right to correction and erasure (s. 12): Request correction, completion, updating, and erasure of personal data where: the purpose of processing is no longer served; consent is withdrawn; an order of a competent court requires erasure; or it is no longer necessary for the purpose for which it was collected. Erasure of data that must be retained under law is not required.
Right to grievance redressal (s. 13): Every Data Principal has the right to have grievances addressed by the Data Fiduciary within the period specified by the DPBI.
Right to nominate (s. 14): Every Data Principal may nominate another individual to exercise rights under the DPDPA on their behalf in the event of death or incapacity.
Right to complain to the DPBI (s. 28): Where a complaint is not resolved to the Data Principal's satisfaction, they may file a complaint with the Data Protection Board of India.
C. Information Technology Act 2000 & IT Rules
The Information Technology Act 2000 (IT Act) and its rules, particularly the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 (IT Rules 2021), impose obligations on significant social media intermediaries and online intermediaries. AqNova's obligations under the IT Rules 2021 include:
Intermediary due diligence (Rule 3): AqNova must publish its terms of use, privacy policy, and user agreement clearly on the Platform. AqNova must not host content that violates applicable law or the prohibitions in Rule 3(1)(b) (including content threatening national security, obscene content, child sexual abuse material, and misleading information).
Grievance redressal mechanism (Rule 3(2)): AqNova must establish a Grievance Officer for India who must acknowledge complaints within 24 hours and resolve them within 15 days. The Grievance Officer's name and contact details must be published.
Takedown obligations (Rule 3(1)(d)): AqNova must act on complaints about prohibited content or unlawful conduct within 36 hours of receiving a valid court order or government directive, and within 24 hours for certain categories of content (e.g., CSAM).
D. GST & Tax Compliance — India
AqNova's Indian tax compliance obligations include:
GST registration: AqNova is required to register under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India and obtain a GSTIN (GST Identification Number) for its taxable supplies made in or to India. AqNova GSTIN: [To be updated upon GST registration].
Tax Collected at Source (TCS): Under Section 52 of the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act 2017, e-commerce operators (including AqNova) are required to collect TCS at 1% (0.5% CGST + 0.5% SGST/UTGST or 1% IGST) on the net value of taxable supplies made through AqNova by suppliers. TCS is deducted from Vendor payouts and deposited with the tax authority. Vendors receive a credit for TCS in their GST return.
Income tax and withholding: AqNova complies with income tax withholding obligations on applicable payments to Indian Vendors, including TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) under the Income Tax Act 1961.
PAN requirement: Vendors registered in India must provide their Permanent Account Number (PAN) for tax compliance and withholding purposes.
E. RBI — Digital Payments & Foreign Exchange (India)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates payment systems under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007. AqNova's payment acceptance in India includes: UPI (Unified Payments Interface) via NPCI-authorized payment processors; credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, RuPay) through RBI-regulated payment aggregators; net banking; and digital wallets (Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay). Cross-border vendor payouts from India are subject to FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999) compliance. AqNova's payment partners are RBI-authorized Payment Aggregators (PAs) complying with RBI's Master Direction on Regulation of Payment Aggregators and Payment Gateways (2020).
🇯🇵 JAPAN / 日本
Japanese (日本語) Required | Specified Commercial Transactions Act
| Japan — AqNova Compliance Overview / 日本コンプライアンス概要 Japan requires comprehensive compliance with the Specified Commercial Transactions Act and related consumer protection legislation. All mandated disclosures to Japanese consumers must be provided in Japanese. Key regulatory bodies: — Consumer Affairs Agency (消費者庁 — CAA) — National Consumer Affairs Center (国民生活センター — NCAC) — Personal Information Protection Commission (個人情報保護委員会 — PPC) — Financial Services Agency (金融庁 — FSA) — Japan Fair Trade Commission (公正取引委員会 — JFTC) — Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (経済産業省 — METI) — National Tax Agency (国税庁 — NTA) AqNova Japan contact: japan@aqnova.co Japanese consumer inquiries: japan@aqnova.co (Japanese language supported) |
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A. Specified Commercial Transactions Act (特定商取引法 — SCTA)
The Act on Specified Commercial Transactions (特定商取引に関する法律), administered by the Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA), governs mail-order sales and internet transactions in Japan. It imposes comprehensive mandatory disclosure requirements and consumer protection provisions that AqNova must comply with for all transactions with Japanese consumers.
| SCTA Provision | AqNova's Compliance Obligations |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Mail-Order Disclosure (SCTA Arts. 11–12 & Regulation Art. 8) | AqNova must display all of the following in Japanese on its Platform or in advertising materials directed at Japanese consumers: (a) name and address of the seller/operator; (b) telephone number; (c) name of the responsible person for the transaction; (d) selling price; (e) payment conditions and timing; (f) delivery timing; (g) return and cancellation conditions; (h) any restrictions on ordering; (i) information about defects or deficiencies; and (j) any other conditions prescribed by Cabinet Order. |
| Prohibition of unsolicited mailing (SCTA Art. 12-3) | AqNova does not send unsolicited commercial emails to Japanese addresses without prior consent. Where a Japanese consumer opts out of marketing communications, AqNova processes the opt-out within 10 business days and does not send further marketing messages. |
| Return policy — statutory cooling-off does not apply to mail-order | Unlike door-to-door sales, statutory cooling-off rights do not apply to mail-order/internet sales under the SCTA. However, AqNova is required to either: (a) accept returns within 8 days of delivery (if the seller does not specify a policy); or (b) clearly publish its return/cancellation policy prior to the sale. AqNova's Platform return policy (30 days) is clearly disclosed before purchase and exceeds any SCTA minimum. |
| False advertising prohibition (Act Against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations) | The Act Against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations (景品表示法, administered by the CAA and JFTC) prohibits false or misleading representations about product quality, quantity, and content. AqNova's listing compliance review enforces accuracy for all Japan-facing listings. |
| Specified Commercial Transactions Display — Mail Order | AqNova maintains a Specified Commercial Transactions Display Page (特定商取引法に基づく表記) in Japanese at [aqnova.co/jp/legal/scta], which contains all mandated disclosures for mail-order sales under the SCTA. |
B. Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI — 個人情報の保護に関する法律)
The Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI), administered by the Personal Information Protection Commission (PPC), governs the handling of personal information by businesses in Japan. Major amendments to the APPI in 2022 significantly strengthened individual rights and enforcement powers, bringing Japan's framework closer to international standards.
Purpose of use limitation: AqNova specifies the purpose for which it collects and uses personal information of Japanese individuals and may not use it for other purposes without consent or a statutory exception.
Sensitive information: Sensitive personal information (病歴 medical history, 犯罪歴 criminal record, etc.) requires explicit opt-in consent and may not be collected without it.
Third-party provision: AqNova may not provide personal information to third parties without the individual's consent, except where required by law or where an opt-out mechanism is available (for certain categories).
Individual rights: Japanese individuals have the right to: notification of the purpose of use; disclosure of held personal information; correction; deletion; suspension of use; and suspension of third-party provision. Requests are processed within 2 weeks (or as otherwise required by applicable regulations).
Cross-border transfers: Since the 2022 APPI amendments, cross-border transfers of personal data to jurisdictions without equivalent protection require: the individual's consent; or implementation of measures equivalent to the APPI standards (e.g., data processing agreements with equivalent protections). AqNova implements appropriate safeguards for cross-border transfers of Japanese users' personal data.
PPC notification for breaches: AqNova is required to notify the PPC and affected individuals in the event of a personal data breach that poses a risk to individuals' rights and interests, within the period specified by PPC regulations.
PPC complaints: Japanese individuals may lodge complaints with the Personal Information Protection Commission at ppc.go.jp.
C. Consumer Contract Act (消費者契約法) & Other Consumer Laws
The Consumer Contract Act (消費者契約法) provides additional protections for Japanese consumers in contracts with businesses, allowing rescission of contracts or invalidation of unfair terms where:
The consumer was induced to conclude the contract by a misleading representation or by taking advantage of the consumer's anxiety.
Contract terms that unreasonably exempt the business from liability are void.
Terms that impose excessive penalties or that unreasonably limit the consumer's right to cancel are void.
AqNova's Platform Terms and Seller Agreement are reviewed for Consumer Contract Act compliance. Terms that would be void under the Consumer Contract Act are not enforced against Japanese consumers.
D. Payments & Financial Regulation — Japan (FSA)
AqNova's payment acceptance in Japan is conducted through FSA-regulated payment service providers. AqNova accepts: credit cards (JCB, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club) through registered payment processors; PayPay, LINE Pay, d払い (d-Barai), and other FSA-registered electronic money / prepaid payment instruments; and bank transfers via Japan Net Bank and major Japanese banks. All payment processing in Japan complies with the Payment Services Act (資金決済に関する法律) and applicable FSA regulations.
🇰🇷 SOUTH KOREA / 대한민국
Korean (한국어) | Electronic Commerce Act
| South Korea — AqNova Compliance Overview South Korea has one of Asia's most advanced legal frameworks for e-commerce, data protection, and digital consumer rights. Key regulatory bodies: — Korea Consumer Agency (한국소비자원 — KCA) — Korea Communications Commission (방송통신위원회 — KCC) — Korea Internet & Security Agency (한국인터넷진흥원 — KISA) — Personal Information Protection Commission (개인정보 보호위원회 — PIPC) — Korea Fair Trade Commission (공정거래위원회 — KFTC) — Financial Services Commission (금융위원회 — FSC) — National Tax Service (국세청 — NTS) AqNova South Korea contact: korea@aqnova.co Korean consumer inquiries: korea@aqnova.co (Korean language supported) |
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A. Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce (전자상거래법)
The Act on Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce, etc. (전자상거래 등에서의 소비자 보호에 관한 법률), administered by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), governs all e-commerce transactions with Korean consumers. It establishes comprehensive consumer protection standards for online retail platforms such as AqNova.
| Electronic Commerce Act Provision | AqNova's Compliance Obligations & Korean Consumer Rights |
|---|---|
| Mandatory pre-contract disclosure (Art. 13) | AqNova must provide Korean consumers with the following information in Korean, before the contract is concluded: (a) seller identity, address, and telephone number; (b) product name, type, and content; (c) price, payment method, and conditions; (d) delivery method and expected delivery date; (e) right of withdrawal, conditions, and process; and (f) after-sale service conditions. |
| Right of withdrawal — 7 days (Art. 17) | Korean consumers who purchase goods through AqNova's e-commerce Platform have a 7-business-day right of withdrawal from the date of receipt of goods (or from the date of conclusion of the contract if the goods have not been received). The withdrawal right requires no justification. The seller must refund within 3 business days of return receipt (or proof of return dispatch). |
| Extended withdrawal — 3 months for misrepresentation (Art. 17(3)) | Where goods are different from the advertisement or contract terms, the consumer may withdraw within 3 months from receipt, or within 30 days from the date the consumer discovered the discrepancy, whichever is later. |
| Prohibition of unjust acts (Art. 21) | AqNova may not engage in unjust acts such as: supplying goods different from those ordered; refusing to accept or process orders or cancellations; giving false information about supply terms; delaying refunds; and other unfair commercial practices prescribed by the Act. |
| Electronic contract record retention (Art. 6) | AqNova retains electronic records of all consumer contracts for at least 5 years (3 years for records of subscription contracts and advertising), and provides consumers with confirmation of their orders. |
| KFTC enforcement | The KFTC has broad investigation and enforcement powers and may impose corrective orders and penalties for Electronic Commerce Act violations. AqNova cooperates with KFTC investigations and information requests. |
B. Personal Information Protection Act (개인정보 보호법 — PIPA)
The Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA), administered by the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC), is South Korea's comprehensive data protection law, widely considered one of the strictest in Asia. PIPA was substantially amended in 2023 to align more closely with global standards including GDPR.
Consent-based processing: Processing of personal information requires the data subject's prior consent, or falls within one of the limited exceptions permitted under PIPA (e.g., legal obligation, contractual necessity). Consent must be specific, informed, and voluntary.
Sensitive information: Sensitive information (health data, political opinions, sexual orientation, biometric data, etc.) requires explicit opt-in consent and is subject to heightened protection requirements.
Third-party sharing: Personal information may only be shared with third parties with the data subject's consent (or under permitted exceptions) and subject to mandatory disclosures about the recipient and purpose.
Data subject rights: Korean data subjects have rights to: access; correction; deletion; suspension of processing; and notification of the legal basis for processing. Requests are processed within 10 business days.
Privacy Policy disclosure (PIPA Art. 30): AqNova publicly discloses its personal information processing policies in Korean at [aqnova.co/kr/legal/privacy].
Data breach notification (PIPA Art. 34): AqNova notifies affected data subjects and the PIPC without delay (within 72 hours) in the event of a personal data breach involving Korean users' data.
International transfers (PIPA Art. 28-8): Cross-border data transfers are permitted with data subject consent or under adequate safeguard mechanisms recognized by the PIPC. AqNova implements standard contractual clauses approved by the PIPC for international transfers of Korean users' data.
PIPC complaints: Korean data subjects may lodge complaints with the PIPC at pipc.go.kr or with KISA's Personal Information Infringement Report Center at privacy.kisa.or.kr.
C. Korean Payments — FSC & Financial Regulation
AqNova's payment acceptance in South Korea is conducted through FSC-licensed payment service providers. AqNova accepts: Korean credit cards (신한, KB국민, 삼성, 현대, 롯데, 우리, 하나 and other domestic issuers) via KPG-registered payment gateways; KakaoPay, Naver Pay, Toss, Samsung Pay through FSC-registered fintech payment providers; and bank transfers via Korean banking networks. All payment processing in South Korea complies with the Electronic Financial Transactions Act (전자금융거래법) and FSC regulations.
🇸🇬 SINGAPORE
English | ASEAN Digital Hub | PDPA Framework
| Singapore — AqNova Compliance Overview Singapore serves as AqNova's ASEAN regional gateway. Singapore's legal framework combines English common law, modern digital commerce regulation, and a sophisticated data protection regime, making it one of Asia's most business-friendly jurisdictions. Key regulatory bodies: — Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) — data protection — Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) — Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) — financial services & payments — Singapore Customs — cross-border trade — IMDA (Infocomm Media Development Authority) — digital economy — Ministry of Manpower (MOM) — employment — Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) AqNova Singapore contact: singapore@aqnova.co |
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A. Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA) — As Amended 2020/2021
The Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA), as substantially amended by the Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2020 and the Personal Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2021, is Singapore's comprehensive data protection law, administered by the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC). The 2020/2021 amendments introduced significant changes including mandatory data breach notification, new grounds for processing, and increased financial penalties.
| PDPA Provision (as amended) | AqNova's Compliance Obligations |
|---|---|
| Consent Obligation (PDPA s. 13) | AqNova obtains the consent of individuals before collecting, using, or disclosing their personal data, except where a deemed consent, notification basis, or other exception under the PDPA applies. Consent must be voluntary, informed, and purpose-specific. |
| Deemed Consent — Notification Basis (s. 15A) | AqNova may rely on deemed consent by notification for certain secondary uses of personal data (e.g., analytics, service improvement) where a notification is provided and the individual has not opted out within a reasonable period. AqNova's Privacy Policy and cookie consent mechanism fulfill this notification requirement. |
| Legitimate Interests Exception (s. 17A) | The 2021 Amendment introduced a legitimate interests exception, allowing processing without consent where: the purpose is not contrary to the interests of the individual; the purpose is one of the listed legitimate purposes; and AqNova has conducted a legitimate interests assessment (LIA). AqNova documents LIAs for processing based on legitimate interests. |
| Data Breach Mandatory Notification (ss. 26A–26D) | AqNova must notify the PDPC and affected individuals of data breaches that result in, or are likely to result in, significant harm or are of a significant scale, within 3 business days of assessing that the breach is notifiable. Affected individuals must be notified as soon as practicable. |
| Data Portability Obligation (ss. 26H–26N — effective 2022) | AqNova must, upon an individual's request, transmit the individual's personal data to another organisation in a format that is commonly used, where AqNova is the data sender. AqNova's 'Download My Data' feature fulfills data portability obligations for Singapore users. |
| Do Not Call (DNC) Registry (PDPA Part IX) | AqNova does not send unsolicited telemarketing messages (SMS, MMS, fax, or voice calls) to Singapore telephone numbers listed on the Do Not Call (DNC) Registry, except where the recipient has provided clear and unambiguous consent. AqNova checks the DNC Registry before sending any telemarketing communications to Singapore numbers. |
| Financial penalties (s. 48J) | PDPC may impose financial penalties of up to 10% of annual turnover in Singapore (for organisations with annual turnover exceeding SGD $10 million) or SGD $1 million (for all others) for contraventions of the PDPA. |
| PDPC complaints | Singapore individuals may lodge complaints with the PDPC at pdpc.gov.sg. PDPC may investigate, issue directions, or impose financial penalties. |
B. Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) — Cap. 52A
The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) prohibits unfair practices in consumer transactions in Singapore, administered by the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS). Key provisions applicable to AqNova include:
Prohibited unfair practices (CPFTA s. 4): Includes making false claims or representations; taking advantage of consumers; using misleading high-pressure tactics; and other unfair practices listed in the Second Schedule. AqNova's Platform policies and listing standards are designed to prevent such practices by Vendors targeting Singaporean consumers.
Right to seek redress (CPFTA s. 6): Consumers who have entered into a consumer transaction involving an unfair practice may apply to the Small Claims Tribunal (for claims up to SGD $20,000) or the District Court for rescission or damages. AqNova's Buyer Protection Program provides the primary redress mechanism.
CCCS investigation powers: The CCCS may investigate complaints, issue directions to suppliers to comply with the CPFTA, and publish names of non-compliant suppliers. AqNova cooperates with CCCS investigations.
Lemon Law provisions (Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) (Amendment) Act 2012): Consumers may request repair, replacement, or refund for defective goods within 6 months of delivery, with the burden of proving the defect did not exist at delivery on the supplier in the first 6 months. AqNova's Buyer Protection Program provides equivalent protections.
C. MAS — Payments & Financial Services Regulation
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) regulates payment services under the Payment Services Act 2019 (PS Act). AqNova's payment acceptance in Singapore is conducted through MAS-licensed Major Payment Institution (MPI) or Standard Payment Institution (SPI) partners. AqNova accepts: PAYNOW and FAST bank transfers via major Singapore banks (DBS, OCBC, UOB, Standard Chartered, HSBC); GrabPay, ShopeePay, and other MAS-licensed e-wallet providers; Visa, Mastercard, and American Express through MAS-compliant payment processors; and Buy Now Pay Later through MAS-regulated providers. AqNova does not itself hold a MAS payment services licence; all payment processing is conducted through MAS-licensed partners.
D. Singapore E-Commerce & Digital Economy Framework
Singapore's e-commerce framework includes:
Electronic Transactions Act (Cap. 88): Electronic contracts, electronic signatures, and electronic records are legally recognized in Singapore under the ETA. AqNova's Platform contracts with Singapore consumers and vendors are valid and enforceable under the ETA.
Spam Control Act: AqNova does not send unsolicited commercial electronic messages to Singapore electronic addresses without prior consent. Marketing communications include a clear opt-out mechanism.
Consumer Protection (Trade Descriptions and Safety Requirements) Act: Product safety requirements and trade description accuracy requirements apply to all goods sold to Singapore consumers through the Platform.
IMDA Digital Economy collaboration: AqNova supports IMDA's digital economy initiatives and complies with IMDA guidelines on digital accessibility and digital inclusion for Singapore internet users.
9.6.8 Digital Payments — Asia-Pacific Framework
AqNova's Asia-Pacific payment infrastructure supports the following country-specific payment systems and local methods:
| Market | Primary Digital Payment Systems | Regulatory Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Visa/Mastercard, eftpos, PayID/Osko (NPP), PayPal, Apple/Google Pay, Afterpay/Zip (BNPL) | RBA / ASIC / APRA |
| India | UPI (PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm), RuPay, NEFT/RTGS/IMPS, Net Banking, Paytm Wallet | RBI / NPCI |
| Japan | JCB, Visa, Mastercard, PayPay, LINE Pay, d-Barai, Amazon Pay, Bank Transfer | FSA / Bank of Japan |
| South Korea | Domestic credit cards (Shinhan, KB, Samsung etc.), KakaoPay, Naver Pay, Toss, Bank Transfer | FSC / FSS |
| Singapore | PAYNOW, FAST, GrabPay, ShopeePay, Visa/Mastercard, Nets, Apple/Google Pay | MAS |
| Asia-Pacific Digital Payments — Consumer Refund Timelines AUSTRALIA (PayID/NPP): 1–2 Business Days from refund authorization AUSTRALIA (Credit/Debit): 5–10 Business Days (card issuer dependent) AUSTRALIA (BNPL): Per BNPL provider's refund policy (generally 3–7 days) INDIA (UPI): 1–3 Business Days INDIA (Net Banking / NEFT): 3–5 Business Days INDIA (Credit/Debit Card): 5–10 Business Days JAPAN (Credit Card): 5–15 Business Days (Japanese card issuers typically longer) JAPAN (Bank Transfer): 3–7 Business Days SOUTH KOREA (Credit Card): 3–10 Business Days (Korean card issuers) SOUTH KOREA (KakaoPay/Naver): 1–3 Business Days SINGAPORE (PayNow): Within 1 Business Day SINGAPORE (Credit/Debit): 5–10 Business Days For payment inquiries: apac-payments@aqnova.co |
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9.6.9 Product Safety & Standards — Asia-Pacific
All products sold to Asia-Pacific consumers through AqNova must comply with the applicable national product safety and standards certification requirements. The following table summarizes the primary product safety frameworks in AqNova's Asia-Pacific markets:
| Market / Standards Body | Key Product Safety Standards & Certification Requirements |
|---|---|
| Australia — ACCC & NATA | Mandatory product safety standards administered by the ACCC under the ACL. Product recalls coordinated through Product Safety Australia (productsafety.gov.au). Suppliers must comply with mandatory safety standards and bans for applicable categories (e.g., toys, electrical goods, personal protective equipment). |
| Australia — TGA | Therapeutic goods, medicines, medical devices (including wearables with health functions), and complementary medicines must be registered or listed on the ARTG before sale in Australia. TGA eBS listing portal. Severe penalties for supply of unregistered therapeutic goods. |
| Australia — FSANZ | Food products imported into Australia must comply with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code administered by FSANZ. Import permits and biosecurity clearances required for applicable food categories. |
| India — BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) | Mandatory BIS certification (ISI mark or CRS for electronics) required for numerous product categories under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act 2016. BIS-CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) applies to electronics, IT products, and electrical goods. Products without mandatory BIS certification may not be sold in India. |
| India — FSSAI | Food products sold in India must comply with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations, including FSSAI licensing, labeling requirements, and food safety standards under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006. |
| Japan — PSE Mark (電気用品安全法) | Electrical and electronic products must carry the PSE mark (電気用品安全法 — Electrical Appliances and Materials Safety Act) before sale in Japan. Products listed in Appended Table 1 (regulated products) require third-party conformity assessment; products in Appended Table 2 require self-declaration. |
| Japan — JAS (Japan Agricultural Standards) | Agricultural products, processed food products, and forestry products sold with quality representations in Japan must comply with Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS) under the JAS Act. Organic agricultural products require JAS organic certification. |
| South Korea — KC Mark | The Korean Conformity (KC) mark is required for electrical, electronic, telecommunications, and children's products sold in South Korea under the framework of mandatory certification managed by the National Radio Research Agency (RRA), National Institute of Technology and Standards (KATS), and KFI. Products without required KC marking may not be imported or sold in Korea. |
| Singapore — Spring Singapore / SAFETY Mark | Consumer goods sold in Singapore must comply with the Consumer Protection (Trade Descriptions and Safety Requirements) Act. The Singapore SAFETY mark (administered by Spring Singapore / Enterprise Singapore) is required for certain controlled goods (electrical goods, children's furniture, bicycle helmets, etc.). |
9.6.10 Tax Compliance — Asia-Pacific Digital Economy
| Market / Tax Regime | AqNova's Obligations & Key Rates |
|---|---|
| Australia — GST (LVIG) | 10% GST on low-value imported goods (≤ AUD $1,000) under the LVIG regime. AqNova registered as EDP/foreign supplier. ABN and GST registration required. |
| India — GST & TCS | 18% GST (standard rate) on digital services; 0–28% on goods (category-dependent). TCS at 1% on net value of taxable supplies through platform (Section 52 CGST Act). GSTIN required. |
| Japan — Consumption Tax | 10% consumption tax (8% for food and beverages). Cross-border digital services (Specified Service Provider rules): registration obligation for foreign digital service providers under the National Tax Agency. |
| South Korea — VAT & Digital Services | 10% VAT standard rate. Foreign digital service providers: simplified VAT registration required with NTS for digital services supplied to Korean consumers from abroad. |
| Singapore — GST | 9% GST (from January 1, 2024). Overseas Vendor Registration (OVR) regime: foreign digital service suppliers and low-value goods suppliers must register for Singapore GST if: (a) annual global turnover > SGD $1 million; and (b) annual sales of B2C digital services or low-value goods to Singapore consumers > SGD $100,000. |
| New Zealand — GST | 15% GST on digital services and low-value imported goods (≤ NZD $1,000) supplied to NZ consumers. Registration required for offshore suppliers with NZ-sourced supplies > NZD $60,000. AqNova monitors NZ sales thresholds for registration obligations. |
9.6.11 AML/CTF — Asia-Pacific Framework
AqNova's Asia-Pacific operations are subject to Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) obligations under national law and FATF Recommendations, implemented through the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) for most markets. Country-specific AML frameworks:
Australia: Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (AML/CTF Act), administered by AUSTRAC. Reporting entities must implement AML/CTF programs, conduct customer due diligence (CDD), and report suspicious matters and threshold transactions to AUSTRAC.
India: Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA), administered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Financial Intelligence Unit — India (FIU-IND). Obligations applicable to payment service providers and reporting entities.
Japan: Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds (犯罪による収益の移転防止に関する法律), administered by the National Police Agency. AML obligations for specified business operators including financial institutions and payment service providers.
South Korea: Act on Reporting and Using Specified Financial Transaction Information (특정 금융거래정보의 보고 및 이용 등에 관한 법률), administered by the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit (KoFIU).
Singapore: Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act (CDSA) and AML/CTF regulations under MAS Notice SFA04-N02 and equivalent notices for regulated entities.
AqNova's Asia-Pacific AML/CTF compliance framework includes risk-based KYC for all Vendors and high-value Buyers; transaction monitoring for unusual patterns and sanctioned party matches; mandatory STR (Suspicious Transaction Report) filing with national FIUs as required; and compliance with FATF Recommendations on wire transfers and cross-border payments.
9.6.12 Asia-Pacific Consumer Rights — Minimum Standards
| AqNova Asia-Pacific Consumer Protection Minimum Standards Across all Asia-Pacific markets, AqNova guarantees the following: 1. WITHDRAWAL / CANCELLATION RIGHTS: Australia: 30-day AqNova return policy (ACL consumer guarantees apply without limit) India: 30-day AqNova return policy + CPA 2019 product liability rights Japan: 30-day AqNova return policy (SCTA no cooling-off for mail order; AqNova policy exceeds statutory minimum) South Korea: 7 business days statutory right of withdrawal + AqNova 30-day policy Singapore: 6-month Lemon Law protections + AqNova 30-day return policy 2. CONSUMER GUARANTEES / WARRANTIES: Australia: Non-excludable ACL consumer guarantees (no time limit for major failures) India: Product liability under CPA 2019; BIS/FSSAI compliance required Japan: Consumer Contract Act protections; SCTA return policy disclosure South Korea: Electronic Commerce Act consumer protections Singapore: CPFTA fair trading + 6-month Lemon Law 3. LANGUAGE: English for all markets; Japanese (日本語) for Japan; Korean (한국어) for South Korea. 4. LOCAL CURRENCY: AUD, INR, JPY, KRW, SGD pricing displayed. 5. CONSUMER AGENCY ACCESS: Australia: accc.gov.au | India: consumerhelpline.gov.in Japan: caa.go.jp | South Korea: kca.go.kr | Singapore: case.org.sg 6. DATA RIGHTS: Privacy rights under applicable national law honored at no charge. |
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9.6.13 Data Protection — Asia-Pacific Summary
| Country | Primary Data Protection Law | Supervisory Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) & Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) | OAIC — oaic.gov.au |
| India | Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 (DPDPA) | Data Protection Board of India (DPBI) — [pending establishment] |
| Japan | Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI — 2022 amendments) | Personal Information Protection Commission (PPC) — ppc.go.jp |
| South Korea | Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA — 2023 amendments) | Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) — pipc.go.kr | KISA — privacy.kisa.or.kr |
| Singapore | Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA — amended 2021) | Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) — pdpc.gov.sg |
| New Zealand | Privacy Act 2020 | Office of the Privacy Commissioner — privacy.org.nz |
| Regional (APEC) | APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) System | APEC — apec.org |
9.6.14 Dispute Resolution — Asia-Pacific Jurisdictions
| Jurisdiction / Dispute Type | Resolution Process & Forum |
|---|---|
| All APAC — Tier 1 (BPP) | AqNova Buyer Protection Program (BPP): buyers@aqnova.co or 'My Orders' > 'Open Dispute'. Target resolution within 10 Business Days. |
| Australia — Consumer Redress | ACCC complaint: accc.gov.au/consumers/problems/make-a-complaint. State fair trading agencies: Fair Trading NSW, Consumer Affairs Victoria, etc. Small Claims: VCAT, NCAT, or equivalent state tribunal. |
| Australia — Arbitration (Commercial) | Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (ACICA). Rules: ACICA Arbitration Rules. Seat: Sydney, Australia. |
| India — Consumer Commissions | District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (claims up to INR 50 lakh); State Commission (INR 50L–2 crore); NCDRC (above INR 2 crore). National Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 / consumerhelpline.gov.in. |
| India — Arbitration (Commercial) | Arbitration and Conciliation Act 1996. Seat: New Delhi or Mumbai at parties' election. DIAC (Delhi International Arbitration Centre) or Mumbai Centre for International Arbitration (MCIA). |
| Japan — Consumer Disputes | National Consumer Affairs Center (NITE): kokusen.go.jp. ADR: Japan ADR Association or Consumer Affairs Agency ADR bodies. Courts: Small Claims Court (少額訴訟) for claims up to JPY 600,000. |
| Japan — Arbitration (Commercial) | Japan Commercial Arbitration Association (JCAA). Rules: JCAA Commercial Arbitration Rules. Seat: Tokyo, Japan. |
| South Korea — Consumer Disputes | Korea Consumer Agency (KCA): kca.go.kr or 1372 hotline. KFTC mediation for electronic commerce disputes. Small Claims: District Court for small consumer claims. |
| South Korea — Arbitration (Commercial) | Korean Commercial Arbitration Board (KCAB). Rules: KCAB International Arbitration Rules. Seat: Seoul, South Korea. |
| Singapore — Consumer Disputes | CASE (Consumers Association of Singapore): case.org.sg. Small Claims Tribunal (SCT): for claims up to SGD $20,000; iDRT (internet dispute resolution). CCCS mediation for fair trading complaints. |
| Singapore — Arbitration (Commercial) | Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC). Rules: SIAC Rules. Seat: Singapore. (Standard forum for cross-regional APAC commercial disputes under AqNova's Platform T&C.) |
| Pan-APAC Cross-Border | SIAC as default cross-border APAC arbitration forum per Platform T&C Section 2.14.2. UNCITRAL Rules available for complex multi-party disputes. |
9.6.15 Asia-Pacific Contact Directory
| AqNova Asia-Pacific — Operational Contacts General Asia-Pacific: apac@aqnova.co Australia (Priority Market): australia@aqnova.co India: india@aqnova.co Japan (EN & 日本語): japan@aqnova.co South Korea (EN & 한국어): korea@aqnova.co Singapore: singapore@aqnova.co Australia Modern Slavery: compliance@aqnova.co [Subject: AU Modern Slavery] Privacy (Asia-Pacific): privacy@aqnova.co India Grievance Officer: grievance-india@aqnova.co Payments (Asia-Pacific): apac-payments@aqnova.co Product Safety: safety@aqnova.co Buyer Protection: buyers@aqnova.co Vendor Support: vendors@aqnova.co Legal Notices: legal@aqnova.com Registered Global Office: Arivon Holding Corporation C/O Arivon Holding Corporation, 2571 Saturn Avenue, Unit #265 Huntington Park, CA 90255, USA EIN: 41-3210066 | D-U-N-S: 142957477 | GB EORI: GB511467217000 Australia ABN: [To be obtained upon ABR registration] Australia GST Registration: [To be obtained upon ATO registration] India GSTIN: [To be obtained upon GST registration] Singapore GST Reg: [To be obtained upon IRAS/MAS registration] |
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| Asia-Pacific Regulatory Bodies Directory AUSTRALIA: ACCC (Consumer & Competition): accc.gov.au OAIC (Privacy): oaic.gov.au ASIC (Financial Services): asic.gov.au TGA (Therapeutics): tga.gov.au ABF (Customs): abf.gov.au ATO (Tax): ato.gov.au Modern Slavery Register: modernslaveryregister.gov.au INDIA: CCPA (Consumer): consumeraffairs.gov.in consumerhelpline.gov.in: 1800-11-4000 DPDPA / DPBI (Data): [dpbi.gov.in — pending establishment] RBI (Payments): rbi.org.in BIS (Standards): bis.gov.in GSTN (Tax): gstn.org.in JAPAN: CAA (Consumer): caa.go.jp NCAC (Consumer): kokusen.go.jp PPC (Privacy): ppc.go.jp FSA (Financial): fsa.go.jp NTA (Tax): nta.go.jp SOUTH KOREA: KFTC (Consumer & Competition): ftc.go.kr KCA (Consumer): kca.go.kr PIPC (Privacy): pipc.go.kr KISA (Digital/Privacy): kisa.or.kr FSC (Financial): fsc.go.kr NTS (Tax): nts.go.kr SINGAPORE: CASE (Consumer): case.org.sg PDPC (Privacy): pdpc.gov.sg MAS (Financial): mas.gov.sg CCCS (Competition): cccs.gov.sg IMDA (Digital Economy): imda.gov.sg IRAS (Tax): iras.gov.sg REGIONAL: APEC CBPR: cbpr.apec.org APG (AML — Asia-Pacific): apgml.org ASEAN DEFA (in progress): asean.org SIAC (Arbitration): siac.org.sg |
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AqNova Marketplace | Global Legal Footer Framework | Section 9.6: Asia & Asia-Pacific Legal Notices
© 2026 Arivon Holding Corporation. All rights reserved. Effective April 7, 2026. Version 1.0.
THIS DOCUMENT IS FOR PLATFORM GOVERNANCE PURPOSES. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE. CONSULT QUALIFIED LOCAL COUNSEL FOR JURISDICTION-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE.