YCD is aware of a recent Amazon announcement: Corresponding to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, Amazon has observed an increase in price gouging in stores, especially on COVID-19-related products such as masks and test kits superior.
As sellers know, the Marketplace Fair Pricing Policy protects customers from unfair, exorbitant and misleading prices. Failure to comply with this policy may trigger offer removal or account suspension.
As a reminder, the Price Gouging Prevention System attempts to account for changes in local laws while also providing a consistent experience for customers on Amazon. Take into account the increased cost of goods, freight and labor. The price gouging threshold has been and will continue to be adjusted to reflect these dynamics.
Amazon Marketplace Fair Pricing Policy
Sellers need to set their own prices on the Amazon marketplace. With our mission to be the most customer-centric company in the world, we are committed to providing buyers with a wide variety of product choices, the lowest prices, and best-in-class delivery speeds, all without the support of sellers.
Amazon regularly monitors the price of an item on the marketplace (including shipping) and compares it to other prices offered to buyers. If Amazon finds that your marketplace pricing practices undermine customer trust, it may remove recommended offers, remove items, and suspend delivery options. Amazon may suspend or terminate a seller’s selling privileges if the situation is severe or recurring.
Pricing practices that undermine buyer trust include, but are not limited to:
- The reference price set for goods or services will mislead buyers;
- The price of the goods or services set is significantly higher than the recent prices of Amazon or other malls;
- The unit price of the same product is higher when multiple pieces are sold than when a single piece is sold.
- Set an exorbitant shipping fee for your item. Amazon considers current published carrier rates, reasonable handling fees, and buyer perceptions when determining whether shipping rates violate our Fair Pricing Policy.
- Amazon reserves the right to update or change this policy without notice.