Fast facts:

eCommerce in China

china feat
china feat

Revenue and Growth

As the worldโ€™s largest eCommerce market, China solidified its position in 2024, achieving a revenue of approximately $2.22 trillion, marking a 14% increase from the previous year.

This growth is driven by a surge in online shoppers, smartphone usage and the dominance of digital payment platforms. The rising popularity of live-streaming commerce, influencer marketing and cross-border eCommerce continues to shape consumer behaviour and expand the market further.

Key Segments in Chinese eCommerce

(% of total revenue)

Clothing: 34.6%

Entertainment (Books, movies, music, games): 9.05%

Cosmetics: 6.69%

Food and Drink: 6.57%

Healthcare: 5.3%

Shoes: 5.2%

Top 5 eCommerce Platforms in China

taobao logo

Taobao
892 million monthly users

tmall logo

Tmall
877 million monthly users

jd.com logo

JD.com
339.7 million monthly users

pinduo logo

Pinduoduo
751.3 million monthly users

dou logo

Douyin
700 million daily active users

Market Dynamics

mCommerce: Mobile shopping dominates in China, with most consumers preferring to make purchases via smartphones. Leading platforms like Taobao, JD.com and Pinduoduo have mobile-first experiences, driving significant sales.

AI and machine learning: Advanced AI and big data analytics enable hyper-personalised shopping experiences, product recommendations and predictive customer behaviour insights. Platforms like Alibaba and Douyin use AI to enhance engagement and boost conversions.ย 

Live-streaming commerce: One of the fastest-growing trends in China, live shopping events hosted by influencers generate billions in sales, reshaping the way consumers interact with brands.

Digital payments: The majority of transactions are cashless, with Alipay and WeChat Pay dominating the market. Seamless, secure and fast mobile payments make eCommerce more accessible than ever.

Chinese dancers

Why consumers in China can be a big market for UK retailers

The rapidly growing Chinese market, driven by a rising middle class with increasing purchasing power, a booming e-commerce sector led by platforms like Tmall and JD.com, and a strong demand for luxury goods, presents lucrative opportunities for businesses to reach and engage consumers through tailored products and digital strategies.

Key Challenges of Chinese eCommerce

> Intense Domestic Competition – The market is dominated by established giants like Alibaba, JD.com and Pinduoduo, making it difficult for new entrants to gain a foothold.ย 

>Regulatory Hurdles – Strict internet controls and evolving eCommerce regulations can complicate operations for foreign companies, requiring them to navigate complex legal landscapes.

> Cultural Nuances – Understanding and adapting to local consumer behaviours and preferences is crucial, as marketing strategies effective in other regions may not resonate with Chinese consumers.

> Logistical Challenges – Despite advancements, China’s vast geography can pose logistical issues, particularly in reaching consumers in remote areas efficiently.

Popular Payment Methods

alipay logo
we chat logo
union pay logo
jd.com logo
tenpay logo
apply pay logo

Consumer Delivery Preferences

  • Chinese consumers expect their orders to arrive quickly, ideally within 48 hours, and prefer free shipping without extra charges for expedited delivery.
  • Easy and free returns are a priority, with many shoppers wanting flexible options such as parcel redirection for added convenience.
  • Online shopping is widely embraced, with consumers actively participating in shopping festivals, community group buying, and Daigou purchases for luxury and foreign goods.

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