The situation: A foreign consumer buys a product (electronics, clothing, household appliances) and discovers a hidden defect, but the seller refuses to refund or replace it.
Applicable law: Article 24 of the Consumer Protection Law (2013) grants the consumer the right to return within 7 days of purchase without restriction. Defects discovered later allow a claim for repair, replacement or refund within the seller's warranty. E-commerce platforms have an additional obligation: a 7-day no-reason return period (Article 25).
Typical outcome: Filing a complaint with 12315 (consumer complaints hotline) or the consumer protection platform, obliging the seller to refund, with potential additional compensation if deception is proven (three-times compensation under Article 55).
📜 Civil Code (general rules) · Awareness case
Consumer Rights — Defective Product and a Seller Who Refuses a Refund · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: 消费者权益保护法 / Consumer Protection Law 2013, Arts 7-25
You bought a defective electronic device or piece of clothing and the seller refused to help — is Chinese law on your side?
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Lesson: In China, consumer rights are very strong compared with many countries. Keep the invoice and packaging. For quick complaints, the 12315 app is the most effective tool.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026