E-commerce in Southeast Asia

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The Chinese Factor Behind Southeast Asia's USD184 Billion E-Commerce Boom丨CBN x ASEAN Watch
2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao· 2025-08-22 09:57
Core Insights - The e-commerce market in Southeast Asia is projected to grow from USD 4 billion in 2012 to USD 184 billion in 2024, marking a 45 times increase, reflecting a similar trajectory to China's e-commerce growth a decade ago [2] - Chinese companies, particularly through investments and technology, are significantly influencing the e-commerce landscape in Southeast Asia, with platforms like Lazada benefiting from Alibaba's AI algorithms [3][5] E-commerce Growth - The e-commerce sales in Southeast Asia are expected to reach USD 184 billion by 2024, showcasing rapid growth in the sector [2] - The penetration rate of e-payments in Southeast Asia has surpassed 50%, with mobile payments based on QR code technology accounting for approximately 55% of e-commerce transactions in Thailand in 2024 [9] Infrastructure and Logistics - Chinese delivery companies, including Cainiao and JD Logistics, have established overseas warehouses in Southeast Asia, reducing delivery times to under 48 hours [7] - JD Logistics has added three new self-operated overseas warehouses in Malaysia and Vietnam in the first half of the year [7] Payment Systems - Chinese companies are leveraging partnerships with global payment platforms like PingPong to facilitate cross-border transactions, integrating with local payment apps to enhance convenience [8] - The integration of Chinese payment systems is enabling smaller players in the region to thrive, creating a supportive ecosystem for e-commerce [9] Localization and Market Adaptation - Chinese enterprises are adapting their strategies to local markets, with companies like Liu's cross-border e-commerce business establishing local teams to assist Chinese merchants in navigating Southeast Asian markets [5] - TikTok Shop is emerging as a significant platform for live-streaming commerce, with 75% of Southeast Asian consumers more willing to purchase based on influencer recommendations, indicating a cultural shift [11][12] Future Projections - The e-commerce market in Southeast Asia is projected to reach USD 410 billion by 2030, indicating ongoing growth and collaboration between Chinese firms and the region [13]