Beni Mellal – Amid the fierce debate sparked by its meteoric rise and ultra-low prices, Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has provided an exclusive detailed statement to Morocco World News (MWN) addressing the recent controversies and concerns surrounding its operations in the Moroccan market since its launch earlier this year.
In the statement, Temu emphasized its commitment to protecting user privacy as a core principle. “We are upfront about how we use data to run our platform and improve the user’s experience,” the spokesperson added.
The company stated it collects the minimum information necessary to manage orders, deliver services, communicate with users, and personalize the shopping experience. Temu highlighted that its data practices align with industry standards, noting that it actually collects less user information compared to peers like Amazon.
They also maintained that their data deletion and retention approach aligns with legal requirements and reflects standard industry practices, citing similar policies from Amazon and Etsy.
Additionally, Temu clarified that it does not request system permissions to access sensitive data such as photos, contacts, or location, except in the Middle East where precise location is needed for shipping due to the lack of a comprehensive address system. The company also assured that it does not sell customer data or share payment details with merchants or logistics partners.
To further demonstrate its commitment to data security, Temu revealed to MWN it has received the Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) certification following an evaluation by DEKRA, the world’s largest independent expert testing organization.
The certification process involves a detailed examination of their app’s data handling, encryption practices, authentication mechanisms, and compliance with industry-standard privacy protections.
Temu also introduced two-factor authentication (2FA) and launched a bug-bounty program on HackerOne to enhance platform safety. Additionally, the company recently joined the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG), an association of over 2,300 enterprises fighting against fraudsters and cybercrime.
In response to concerns raised by consumer groups like the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) about Temu’s practices, the company reiterated its commitment to full compliance with laws and regulations in the markets where it operates.
Temu highlighted to MWN recent actions it has taken, including entering a cease-and-desist declaration in Germany and signing a product safety pledge in South Korea, to demonstrate its dedication to compliance and consumer safety.
While some local wholesalers quoted in the original article believed Temu could boost e-commerce overall in Morocco by familiarizing more consumers with online shopping, others worried that the app’s rock-bottom prices could seriously impact traditional retailers. Temu’s statement did not directly address these concerns about its potential disruption of the retail sector.
On the topic of app permissions, Temu clarified that it is committed to transparency and minimal permissions usage. The company explained that when using photos for features like reviews, it does not directly access the camera but instead delegates tasks to the phone’s built-in camera and gallery apps to ensure user privacy.
In terms of product quality and customer service, areas of concern for Moroccan shoppers trying the platform, Temu encouraged users to carefully review item details and vendor ratings before purchasing. The company also offers a Purchase Protection program providing refunds in certain cases and has a customer service team to handle order issues and inquiries.
As Temu’s rapid growth continues in Morocco, the company says it is committed to cooperating with stakeholders to prioritize consumer safety and to rectify any shortcomings in its service. “We hold the interest of consumers at heart and strive to provide a safe and trusted service that is valued by consumers and adds significant value,” the spokesperson said to MWN.
How the platform’s rise will ultimately impact Morocco’s e-commerce landscape remains to be seen, but Temu looks set to remain a major player as it works to address the concerns surrounding its meteoric ascent.
Read also: Too Good to Be True? Chinese App Temu Sparks Fierce Debate in Morocco
