E-commerce

Negotiators from the European Parliament and EU member states agreed in Brussels on a new processing fee for every product ordered online and imported into the EU. The fee is set to apply from November 1 and cover costs for handling small packages.

25 Mwezi wa tatu, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

PDD Holdings, the operator of Pinduoduo and Temu, reported an 11% drop in quarterly profit to 24.5 billion yuan on Wednesday, despite higher sales, as it shifts toward greater reinvestment. Full-year net profit fell 12% to 99.3 billion yuan, while revenue rose 10% to 431.8 billion yuan.

Foreign companies including Ikea, Continental, and Aldi Nord are partnering with local platforms to launch instant delivery services in China, targeting a US$143.9 billion instant retail market. These offerings provide faster and more comprehensive delivery than abroad, fueled by China's leading digital infrastructure.

22 Mwezi wa kwanza, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

eBay has updated its User Agreement to prohibit third-party AI agents and chatbots from making purchases on its platform without permission. The policy, effective February 20, 2026, addresses the growing trend of 'agentic commerce' tools that automate shopping. This move allows eBay to pursue legal action against violators while leaving room for its own AI developments.

E-commerce giant Coupang has announced a 1.68 trillion won compensation plan for 33.7 million users affected by a recent data breach. The package includes 50,000 won in vouchers per person, with distributions starting next month. This follows founder Kim Bom-suk's first public apology over the incident.

26 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

South Africa's retail sector is entering the 2025 festive season with cautious resilience amid structural shifts. Sales in textiles, furniture, and online channels are rising, but households remain budget-conscious due to inflation and value concerns. This transition highlights a blend of seasonal spikes and long-term changes in consumer behavior.