Is COVID-19 Reshaping Consumer Buying Behavior? Understanding the Problems and Issues of Online Purchase in Nepal

Abstract

In the COVID-19 pandemic period, online shopping has increased in Nepal due to access to internet at low cost. This is true that COVID-19 is somehow reshaping consumer buying behavior. The research shows that respondents are moderately positive towards online purchase too. However, the consumer feels that there are still many issues and problems associated with online purchase in Nepal i.e. credibility of goods, quality assurance, brand configuration etc. Although customers prefer to buy via online system, they are not happy on it because of poor service, lack of timelines etc. As the emerging business of online trading is increasing and ever increasing, the policy, legislation and other best practices should be issued and implemented. If problems and issues related to online purchase is not solved immediately then some drastic changes will not happen in E-commerce Industry. Once the pandemic is over and life of people is normal, people will be back to showroom visits. It would be better to promote online buy and sell with quality assurance and protection of consumer.