The Rise of E-Commerce in Bangladesh
The Rise of E-Commerce in Bangladesh
Md. Joynal Abdin, BBA (Hons.), MBA
Founder & CEO, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (TIB)
Secretary General, Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BBCCI)
Bangladesh is experiencing a rapid transformation in its business landscape, largely fueled by the exponential rise of e-commerce. With increased internet penetration and the widespread use of smartphones, online shopping has emerged as a new frontier for consumers and businesses alike. Once a market dominated by traditional brick-and-mortar stores, Bangladesh is now witnessing a digital shift that is reshaping the way people buy and sell products. E-commerce is no longer just a luxury; it has become an integral part of everyday life for millions across the country.
This digital revolution has been accelerated by various factors, with the COVID-19 pandemic acting as a key catalyst. During lockdowns, consumers turned to online platforms for everything from groceries to electronics, leading to a surge in demand for e-commerce services. As a result, the industry saw unprecedented growth, with new businesses emerging and existing ones expanding their digital footprints. Platforms like Daraz, Evaly, and Chaldal became household names, offering everything from fashion and electronics to food delivery, all accessible with a few clicks.
Government initiatives have also played a significant role in driving the e-commerce boom. The “Digital Bangladesh” vision has paved the way for better infrastructure, more reliable internet services, and favorable policies aimed at fostering digital businesses. Through initiatives such as reducing import duties on technology products and simplifying regulations for online businesses, the government has helped create an ecosystem conducive to the growth of e-commerce. This, in turn, has opened up opportunities for entrepreneurs, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to reach a wider customer base and compete in the digital marketplace.
However, the e-commerce sector in Bangladesh is not without its challenges. Issues such as logistics, payment gateways, and trust barriers remain significant hurdles that need to be addressed for the industry to sustain its growth. Reaching rural areas with reliable delivery services, promoting digital payment methods over cash-on-delivery, and ensuring consumer trust through quality control and return policies are key concerns. Yet, despite these challenges, the potential for further expansion is enormous, especially as technological innovations continue to drive efficiency and improve customer experience.
In the coming years, Bangladesh’s e-commerce industry is poised to grow even more, with emerging trends like mobile commerce, social media shopping, and cross-border trade expected to take center stage. As the country continues to embrace digital transformation, the e-commerce sector will likely play a pivotal role in shaping its economic future, offering both businesses and consumers new opportunities in an increasingly connected world.
2. Market Overview: Current Landscape of E-Commerce
The e-commerce market in Bangladesh has witnessed substantial growth in recent years, driven by increasing internet penetration, smartphone usage, and shifting consumer behaviors. As of 2021, the market was valued at approximately Tk 56,870 crore (about $5.3 billion), and it is projected to grow to around Tk 1.5 lakh crore ($14 billion) by 2026, representing an annual growth rate of about 17.61%.
Key players in this expanding sector include Daraz, which dominates with its comprehensive platform offering a wide range of products, and other companies like AjkerDeal, Rokomari, and Evaly. Daraz, particularly, leads with an impressive average of 80,000 orders daily, peaking during major campaigns such as their 11.11 sales, where they generated $2.5 million in the first hour. However, the rapid rise of some platforms like Evaly, which attracted customers with heavy discounts, was followed by their downfall due to allegations of fraud, highlighting challenges in maintaining consumer trust.
Social media has become an essential part of the e-commerce ecosystem in Bangladesh. With over 50,000 Facebook-based businesses operating in the country, many retailers rely on social platforms to sell directly to consumers. These businesses leverage Facebook’s broad reach to engage with customers, making social media a crucial driver of the market, even as regulatory frameworks attempt to catch up with the rapid growth.
This growth in e-commerce has reshaped consumer habits, pushing them away from traditional retail toward more digital, convenient shopping experiences. Despite challenges like fraud and the need for better regulations, the sector’s trajectory remains highly positive.
3. Government Initiatives and Policies Supporting E-Commerce
The government of Bangladesh has played a pivotal role in supporting the growth of the e-commerce sector through a series of initiatives and policies. These efforts are part of the larger “Digital Bangladesh” vision, which aims to create a knowledge-based economy by leveraging technology and digital platforms. Below are key initiatives and policies that have bolstered the e-commerce landscape:
3.1. Digital Commerce Policy 2018
The Digital Commerce Policy 2018 was one of the most significant frameworks introduced by the government to regulate and promote the e-commerce sector. This policy provides guidelines for conducting digital commerce, ensuring consumer protection, and enhancing transparency in online transactions. It outlines the responsibilities of online businesses regarding product delivery, refunds, and customer service, helping to build consumer trust.
3.2. Simplification of Business Processes
The government has streamlined business registration processes for e-commerce companies. This includes simplifying the process of obtaining a trade license, tax identification numbers (TIN), and VAT registration. These reforms have made it easier for e-commerce platforms, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to enter the market legally and operate with reduced bureaucratic hurdles.
3.3. Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority
To support technological innovation, the government has established high-tech parks. These parks offer incentives such as tax holidays, duty-free import of equipment, and low-cost office spaces for tech-based startups, including e-commerce companies. This infrastructure helps foster innovation in logistics, payment solutions, and digital marketing.
3.4. E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (e-CAB)
The E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (e-CAB) works closely with the government to create a favorable environment for digital commerce. The organization advocates for industry-friendly policies, offers training programs for entrepreneurs, and helps enforce ethical business practices. Its collaboration with the government ensures that regulations evolve in line with the rapid development of the sector.
3.5. Mobile Financial Services (MFS) Expansion
Mobile financial services such as bKash and Nagad have revolutionized digital payments, making it easier for consumers to pay for goods and services online. The government’s support for expanding mobile banking infrastructure and promoting digital transactions has been critical in reducing the reliance on cash-on-delivery (COD) methods, which are common in Bangladesh’s e-commerce ecosystem.
3.6. E-Commerce Week and Awareness Campaigns
The government organizes events like National Digital Commerce Week to promote awareness about e-commerce and encourage more people to engage in digital transactions. These events showcase the potential of online business and highlight the opportunities available for entrepreneurs.
3.7. Postal Service for E-Commerce Deliveries
The government has also modernized the national postal service to support e-commerce deliveries. The Bangladesh Post Office has launched e-post services that allow local e-commerce platforms to deliver products even in remote areas at affordable rates. This initiative addresses one of the critical challenges in the sector: reaching underserved regions.
These policies and initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving e-commerce ecosystem, ensuring that the sector remains a key driver of economic growth in the coming years.
4. Opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
The e-commerce boom in Bangladesh offers numerous opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), empowering them to expand their market reach, enhance customer engagement, and boost sales. These opportunities are particularly transformative for SMEs, which have traditionally faced barriers in terms of resources, geographical limitations, and access to larger customer bases.
4.1. Expanded Market Reach
E-commerce platforms provide SMEs with access to a vast online marketplace, enabling them to reach consumers not just locally, but also nationally and internationally. Online marketplaces like Daraz and AjkerDeal offer SMEs the infrastructure to sell products online without needing to invest heavily in physical retail stores. This expanded market reach allows small businesses to grow faster and tap into new customer segments that were previously out of reach.
4.2. Low-Cost Entry
Starting an online business has relatively low barriers compared to setting up traditional brick-and-mortar stores. SMEs can easily set up online shops through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram or by listing products on major e-commerce platforms. The cost-effective nature of e-commerce, combined with affordable digital marketing tools, helps SMEs compete with larger businesses.
4.3. Access to Digital Marketing Tools
E-commerce gives SMEs the ability to use digital marketing strategies such as social media advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing to attract more customers. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google enable SMEs to reach targeted audiences with precision, offering insights into customer behavior, preferences, and purchasing patterns. This allows SMEs to optimize their marketing campaigns for better engagement and sales conversions.
4.4. Improved Logistics and Payment Solutions
SMEs can benefit from the development of better logistics and payment systems. Services like bKash, Nagad, and the Bangladesh Post Office’s e-post services make it easier for small businesses to handle payments and deliveries. These solutions reduce reliance on cash transactions and manual logistics, making it more convenient for SMEs to manage operations.
4.5. Government Support
The government has introduced policies and incentives aimed at supporting SMEs in the digital economy. Initiatives like the Digital Commerce Policy 2018 and various SME loan schemes are designed to promote the growth of small businesses in the online space. Additionally, programs led by the E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (e-CAB) provide training and resources to help SMEs understand the e-commerce landscape and capitalize on its opportunities.
4.6. New Export Opportunities
The growing e-commerce sector also opens up international trade opportunities for Bangladeshi SMEs. With online platforms facilitating cross-border trade, SMEs can now sell their products to global markets. Products such as garments, handicrafts, and jute goods have the potential to reach international buyers through e-commerce channels.
In summary, the e-commerce ecosystem in Bangladesh presents significant opportunities for SMEs to scale their operations, reduce costs, and access new markets both domestically and internationally. By leveraging digital tools, government support, and improved logistics, SMEs are well-positioned to thrive in the evolving digital economy.
5. Challenges in the E-Commerce Industry in Bangladesh
The e-commerce industry in Bangladesh, despite its rapid growth, faces several significant challenges. These obstacles, if not addressed, could hinder the sector’s full potential. Below are some of the key challenges:
5.1. Trust and Fraud Issues
One of the biggest hurdles for e-commerce in Bangladesh is the lack of consumer trust. High-profile scandals, such as the collapse of platforms like Evaly, which was accused of fraudulent practices, have caused apprehension among consumers. This has affected consumer confidence across the industry, even for legitimate businesses. Instances of delayed deliveries, product misrepresentation, and non-refunds have contributed to this distrust.
5.2. Underdeveloped Logistics and Infrastructure
Although logistics services are improving, especially in urban areas, many e-commerce businesses still face challenges related to delivery infrastructure. Last-mile delivery in rural and remote areas remains a significant issue due to inadequate road infrastructure and higher delivery costs. The capacity to deliver goods quickly and reliably is critical for customer satisfaction, and the lack of efficient logistics can negatively affect business growth.
5.3. Limited Payment Gateway Options
While Mobile Financial Services (MFS) like bKash and Nagad have improved digital payments, the market is still heavily reliant on cash-on-delivery (COD), which poses risks for both sellers and buyers. COD creates logistical challenges, such as high return rates and non-payments upon delivery, making it difficult for businesses to maintain cash flow. Additionally, limited access to secure online payment gateways discourages online transactions for many consumers.
5.4. Lack of Regulatory Oversight
Although the Digital Commerce Policy 2018 was a positive step, the e-commerce industry still suffers from insufficient regulatory oversight. Many fraudulent or unregulated online businesses can operate freely due to weak enforcement of consumer protection laws. The lack of a centralized regulatory body to monitor and address complaints effectively makes it hard for consumers to seek redress in cases of fraud.
5.5. Cybersecurity and Data Protection
The rapid growth of online transactions has increased vulnerabilities to cyberattacks and data breaches. Many e-commerce platforms lack robust security measures to protect sensitive customer information, including personal and financial data. The absence of strict data protection laws further exposes consumers and businesses to cyber threats.
5.6. Digital Divide and Internet Access
Despite the expansion of internet access in Bangladesh, a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, still lacks reliable internet connectivity. This digital divide limits the potential customer base for e-commerce businesses, as people in underserved regions are less likely to engage in online shopping. Additionally, the cost of mobile data is still high for many consumers.
5.7. High Competition and Thin Margins
The e-commerce landscape in Bangladesh is becoming increasingly competitive, especially with the entry of global players like Daraz and local giants like AjkerDeal. Smaller players and startups often struggle to compete due to limited resources and thin profit margins. Offering deep discounts, which is a common practice to attract customers, further squeezes profit margins, making it difficult for new entrants to sustain themselves.
Addressing these challenges will require concerted efforts from both the government and private sector, focusing on stronger regulatory frameworks, better logistics, increased digital literacy, and consumer protection mechanisms. These steps are crucial to ensure sustainable growth in the e-commerce industry.
6. Consumer Behavior: The Shift to Online Shopping
Consumer behavior in Bangladesh has seen a notable shift toward online shopping, driven by increasing internet access, smartphone adoption, and changing lifestyles. According to DataReportal 2023, over 68 million people in Bangladesh are internet users, and the number continues to grow each year. This shift has accelerated the adoption of e-commerce, particularly as consumers increasingly value convenience, broader product selection, and the ease of comparing prices online. The COVID-19 pandemic further pushed this trend, as lockdowns and social distancing measures forced many consumers to turn to online platforms for essential purchases.
The rise of Mobile Financial Services (MFS) like bKash and Nagad has made online shopping more accessible, especially for people who prefer digital transactions over cash. Data from bKash suggests that more than 80% of its users actively engage in e-commerce transactions, demonstrating the strong correlation between mobile payments and the growth of online shopping. Similarly, a study by e-CAB (E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh) reports that the sector grew by over 70% during 2020 and continues to expand steadily as consumers become more comfortable shopping online.
Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have also played a key role in this behavioral shift. An estimated 50,000 Facebook-based businesses operate in the country, catering to a diverse range of customers. Many consumers prefer shopping on social media due to the personalized nature of interactions and easier communication with sellers. This shift highlights how online platforms have evolved into primary shopping destinations, reshaping traditional retail practices in Bangladesh.
7. Technology and Innovation Driving E-Commerce
Technology and innovation are crucial drivers of e-commerce growth in Bangladesh, revolutionizing how consumers shop and how businesses operate. The increasing penetration of smartphones and improved internet infrastructure have transformed the digital landscape, making online shopping more accessible than ever. As of 2023, mobile internet usage reached approximately 92% of all internet users in the country, according to DataReportal. This widespread adoption enables consumers to shop conveniently from their devices, significantly increasing the volume of transactions conducted online.
The integration of Mobile Financial Services (MFS) has further propelled e-commerce growth. Services like bKash and Nagad have streamlined payment processes, making digital transactions faster and more secure. As per reports, MFS platforms accounted for over 60% of total e-commerce transactions in Bangladesh. In addition to facilitating payments, these services also enhance consumer confidence in online shopping by providing easy refund and dispute resolution mechanisms.The role of technology in creating a seamless shopping experience is critical in driving more consumers to embrace e-commerce platforms.
Moreover, innovations in logistics and supply chain management have improved the delivery infrastructure for e-commerce businesses. Companies are increasingly utilizing data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize inventory management, predict consumer behavior, and enhance delivery efficiency. The E-Commerce Association of Bangladesh (e-CAB) estimates that over 70% of e-commerce companies are adopting technology-driven solutions to enhance their operations, which ultimately leads to faster service and better customer satisfaction. As technology continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of e-commerce in Bangladesh, enabling businesses to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.
8. The Role of Social Media and Digital Marketing in E-Commerce
Social media and digital marketing have become integral components of the e-commerce landscape in Bangladesh, playing a significant role in driving consumer engagement and business growth. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are not only used for social interaction but have evolved into key marketing channels for businesses. According to DataReportal 2023, Bangladesh has over 44 million active social media users, with a majority of them engaging with brands and businesses via these platforms. Facebook alone has become a marketplace for an estimated 50,000 businesses, which use the platform for both direct sales and brand promotion. The combination of widespread social media use and targeted advertising allows businesses to reach specific customer segments effectively.
Digital marketing strategies such as Facebook boosting, Google Ads, and email marketing enable e-commerce companies to promote their products to a larger audience. These platforms provide valuable insights into consumer behavior, helping businesses tailor their campaigns to the preferences of their target customers. While this level of personalization enhances engagement and boosts sales, small businesses often face challenges in competing with larger brands that have more significant marketing budgets. This can lead to highly competitive digital marketing landscapes, where smaller players struggle to maintain visibility.
Additionally, influencer marketing has gained traction in Bangladesh’s e-commerce scene, with influencers promoting products to their followers on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. This strategy is particularly effective in reaching younger consumers who trust peer recommendations over traditional advertising. However, the effectiveness of social media marketing can also depend on factors such as changing algorithms and consumer behavior, making it a constantly evolving space. Despite these challenges, businesses that leverage social media and digital marketing successfully can create a strong online presence and drive significant e-commerce growth.
9. Future Prospects of E-Commerce in Bangladesh
The future of e-commerce in Bangladesh appears highly promising, fueled by ongoing technological advancements, government support, and an increasing number of internet users. As of 2023, DataReportal reports that over 68 million people are connected to the internet, with this number expected to grow as digital infrastructure improves. The country’s mobile-first consumer base, coupled with rising smartphone penetration (with 92% of internet users accessing the web via mobile), will continue to drive online shopping adoption. E-commerce revenues are projected to reach $3 billion by 2025, highlighting the sector’s exponential growth potential.
Bangladesh’s e-commerce ecosystem is set to expand further, particularly with the government’s initiatives such as the Digital Bangladesh Vision 2021 and the more recent Digital Commerce Policy 2022. These policies aim to foster an enabling environment for online businesses by addressing logistical challenges, supporting SMEs, and improving payment gateways. As mobile financial services (MFS) like bKash and Nagad continue to dominate the market, the growth of digital payments will further support the e-commerce boom. A growing preference for cashless transactions, especially in urban centers, is expected to reduce reliance on cash-on-delivery (COD), improving payment efficiency.
Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and innovative delivery systems, such as drone delivery and automated warehouses, will revolutionize the sector. E-commerce businesses will benefit from improved logistics and supply chain management, resulting in faster deliveries and enhanced customer experiences. Additionally, the increasing use of social commerce—driven by platforms like Facebook and Instagram—is expected to open new avenues for smaller businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive. With these advancements, Bangladesh’s e-commerce market is on track to become one of the largest in South Asia.
10. Concluding Remarks:
In conclusion, the e-commerce industry in Bangladesh has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, with rising internet penetration, the proliferation of mobile financial services, and increasing consumer confidence playing key roles. The sector, now valued at billions of dollars, continues to expand with the help of government initiatives like the Digital Bangladesh Vision 2021 and evolving digital infrastructure. While challenges such as logistics, regulatory oversight, and consumer trust issues remain, the industry’s trajectory is optimistic. Emerging technologies like AI, improved logistics, and the rise of social commerce will further drive innovation and competition in the market.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are uniquely positioned to benefit from the growth of e-commerce, as social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram provide easy access to a broader customer base. Furthermore, consumers’ shift toward cashless payments through platforms like bKash and Nagad is creating a more streamlined online shopping experience. With continued advancements in technology and greater regulatory support, the future of e-commerce in Bangladesh looks bright, poised to become a key driver of economic growth in the country.
As Bangladesh embraces digital transformation, both established businesses and startups have the potential to thrive in the evolving e-commerce landscape, leveraging the opportunities to reach new markets and foster a robust digital economy.