An Analysis of Indonesian E-Commerce Contract Subjects' Legal Proficiency

  • Dahris Siregar Tjut Nyak Dhien University, Indonesia
Keywords: Legal Certainty, E-Commerce, Electronic Transactions, Agreement

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the legal competence of contract subjects in the context of transactions involving e-commerce in Indonesia. This will be done through the lens of normative juridical theory. According to Article 1320 of the Indonesian Civil Code, the verification of the legal competence of parties has grown exponentially more complicated as a result of the fast increase of electronic transactions. This is a consequence of the fact that such transactions have become more prevalent. The fact that there has been a rise in the amount of transactions conducted electronically is consistent with this. With regard to the legitimacy of agreements, this is a requirement.  For the purpose of this investigation, a descriptive-analytical research approach within the normative legal research framework is used. In the course of doing the study, this method is used. via the process of conducting an analysis of the rules that are now in place, such as Government Regulation 71/2019 and the ITE Law, and comparing and contrasting these regulations with the practices that are followed in other countries. Clearly, there is no regulation that explicitly regulates the verification process of legal competence in electronic transactions. This is shown by the findings, which indicate that there is a significant gap in the legal system. Only the most fundamental verification methods are utilized by e-commerce platforms in Indonesia, which is insufficient to verify the legal capability of users. As a consequence of this, children and those who are placed under the supervision of an adult are able to carry out transactions without encountering any obstacles. Another factor that leads to the creation of legal uncertainty is the presence of a plurality in legislation that was passed during the age of majority. Through the implementation of risk-based proportional verification obligations, the development of national digital identity verification infrastructure, the implementation of parental consent mechanisms, and the strengthening of dispute resolution mechanisms through online dispute resolution, the findings of this study suggest that regulatory improvements should be implemented. The goal of these proposals is to provide a framework for electronic commerce that not only ensures compliance with the law but also fosters the expansion of the digital economy without compromising its sustainability.

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Published
2026-08-07