Key Facts
• On October 22, 2025, Mercari updated its terms of service.
• Businesses are now prohibited from using personal accounts for sales.
• Affected users must transition to Mercari Shops, a business-focused platform.
• Mercari Shops offers access to over 23 million monthly users.
• Fees remain unchanged: 10% sales commission and $2 bank transfer fee.
• “Business” classification lacks clear definition on Mercari’s website.
• Consumer Affairs Agency guidelines suggest thresholds: 200+ items/month or $10,000+ in sales.
• Mercari Shops provides features like inventory management, staff accounts, and API integration.
• New delivery service “Cool Mercari Shipping” supports refrigerated and frozen goods.
• Mercari aims to maintain a healthy marketplace for personal transactions.
Summary
Mercari has implemented a significant policy change as of October 22, 2025, prohibiting businesses from using personal accounts for sales. This move affects users engaged in reselling, handmade goods, and other business activities, requiring them to transition to Mercari Shops, a platform tailored for businesses. While concerns about profitability have emerged, Mercari Shops offers continuity by maintaining access to the platform’s vast user base and keeping fees consistent. Enhanced features like inventory management, staff accounts, and API integration aim to streamline operations for businesses. Additionally, the introduction of “Cool Mercari Shipping” supports cost-effective delivery of perishable goods. Mercari emphasizes that this change is not a withdrawal from its marketplace but an effort to ensure a healthy environment for personal transactions while providing businesses with tools for growth.
