A separate rulebook for sellers
If you list products in your WhatsApp catalog or sell through chat, you fall under the WhatsApp Commerce Policy in addition to the general Messaging Policy. It governs what can appear in catalogs, what can be promoted through Click-to-WhatsApp ads, and what can be transacted in chat. Violations result in catalog removal and, in repeat cases, full account loss.
Always prohibited
Some categories are banned globally with no exceptions. These include illegal drugs and prescription medication, weapons and ammunition, live animals, human body parts, tobacco products and related accessories, adult products and services, real currency including cryptocurrency exchange, and unsafe supplements that promise rapid weight loss or other health miracles.
Restricted with conditions
Other categories are allowed only in specific markets or with extra checks. Alcohol is restricted in many countries and requires age verification where permitted. Gambling and lottery products require licensing in the jurisdiction where they are advertised. Health products are allowed if they make no exaggerated medical claims. Financial services must comply with local financial conduct rules.
The grey areas
Many businesses get tripped up by items that seem harmless but fall under restricted categories. CBD products, vaping accessories, second-hand goods sold by individuals, dating services, weight loss programs and miracle skincare claims are all common rejection reasons. When in doubt, check the official Meta Commerce Policy page or ask your BSP before listing.
Why product photos matter
Reviewers look at images as well as text. A clothing listing with overly suggestive images can be flagged as adult content. A supplement bottle that visually mimics a prescription drug can be rejected. Use clear product-on-white shots wherever possible and avoid stock images that hint at prohibited categories.
Service businesses
If you sell services rather than physical goods, you can still use the catalog by listing each service as an item with a price and description. The same rules apply. "Hair styling appointment" is allowed, but "intimate massage" is not, regardless of how legitimate the actual business is.
What happens after a violation
Minor first-time violations usually result in catalog item removal with an email explanation. Repeat or serious violations escalate to account-level restrictions, which can include the suspension of your messaging ability. There is a formal appeals process inside Business Manager, but successful appeals require evidence that the violation was a misunderstanding rather than an attempt to bend the rules.