Shein, Temu, Alibaba, and TikTok Shop Are Taking Over
Chinese e-commerce companies are taking the digital retail world by storm, and Southeast Asia is their latest playground. A new report by Bain and Company reveals that platforms like Shein, Temu, Alibaba, and TikTok Shop now dominate around 50% of online shopping in Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Local retailers are suddenly facing fierce competition from fast-moving Chinese platforms that combine low prices, lightning-fast delivery, and viral marketing.
Singles Day Mania Spreads Beyond China
The power behind this surge? The global expansion of China’s Singles Day shopping event. Once a massive sales day in China, it’s now creating a shopping frenzy across Southeast Asia, attracting millions of consumers with jaw-dropping discounts.
Alibaba and TikTok Shop are turning every deal into a viral event, leaving local businesses struggling to compete.
How Chinese Platforms Are Crushing Competitors
Bain’s report highlights the winning formula:
- Extremely low prices that local retailers can’t match
- Viral social media campaigns, especially on TikTok
- Efficient logistics and fast shipping
- Localized experiences tailored for each country
The result? Chinese e-commerce companies are gaining millions of loyal customers in record time and reshaping the online shopping landscape.
Southeast Asia: The Goldmine for E-Commerce
With millions of tech-savvy online shoppers, Southeast Asia is the perfect target. Companies like Shein and Temu are turning convenience and affordability into a competitive weapon, leaving local e-commerce platforms scrambling.
Expansion on a Global Scale
The ambition doesn’t stop in Asia. Bain’s report notes that Chinese platforms are expanding into markets like the U.S. and Brazil, proving they aim to dominate global e-commerce.
Despite slowing growth in China and ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, these companies are pushing aggressively into new markets.
The Threat to Local Businesses
For local e-commerce platforms, the rise of Chinese giants is a serious warning. Companies must innovate, enhance logistics, and adopt social commerce strategies — or risk losing customers to more agile competitors.
Bottom Line
Chinese e-commerce firms have redefined online shopping in Southeast Asia. With 50% of the market now under their control, giants like Alibaba, Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop are setting new standards for affordability, speed, and digital shopping experiences.
For consumers, it’s a golden age of online deals. For local retailers, it’s survival of the fastest and smartest.
I am Aparna Sahu
Investment Specialist and Financial Writer
With 2 years of experience in the financial sector, Aparna brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to Investor Welcome. As an accomplished author and investment specialist, Aparna has a passion for demystifying complex financial concepts and empowering investors with actionable strategies. She has been featured in relevant publications, if any, and is dedicated to providing clear, evidence-based analysis that helps clients make informed investment decisions. Aparna holds a relevant degree or certification and is committed to staying ahead of market trends to deliver the most up-to-date advice.