E-Commerce News & Trends

Amazon Tightens Fulfilled by Merchant Requirements Across Europe

Amazon is introducing stricter performance requirements for merchants using its Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM) program, signaling a stronger focus on delivery reliability and customer experience. The updated rules will require sellers to maintain higher delivery standards or risk having their listings deactivated on the marketplace.

Amazon has announced significant changes to its FBM policies, particularly in Germany and the United Kingdom, as it seeks to improve delivery performance and provide more accurate delivery promises to customers. Under the new requirements, sellers will need to maintain an On-Time Delivery Rate (OTDR) of at least 90 percent, with stricter enforcement measures beginning later this year.

Starting on September 1, 2026, German sellers that fail to meet the required delivery standards may see affected listings deactivated and could lose the ability to add new FBM products. Similar requirements are also being introduced for Amazon Business orders, where merchants will be expected to achieve at least a 90 percent business-hour delivery rate beginning September 30. Non-compliant listings for business customers may be removed from October 30 onwards.

Amazon is also tightening its handling time requirements. In the UK, account-level default handling times will be limited to zero-day and one-day options from July 15, 2026. Additionally, the company plans to automatically adjust handling times on products where sellers consistently outperform their own stated processing estimates.

Amazon Expands Fulfillment Requirements as New Cross-Border Regulations Take Effect

The policy updates coincide with new European Union customs regulations affecting cross-border e-commerce shipments. From July 1, 2026, merchants shipping low-value orders from outside the EU into the bloc must use approved carriers and provide enhanced customs documentation, including product-level information and Amazon’s Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) details for eligible shipments.

The new requirements reflect Amazon’s broader strategy of raising operational standards across its marketplace ecosystem. For merchants, the changes underscore the growing importance of delivery performance, logistics efficiency, and regulatory compliance in maintaining visibility and competitiveness on one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms.

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Shipping Resumes Between Iran and UAE as Direct Cargo Routes Reopen

Iran has announced the resumption of direct cargo shipping routes from the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step toward restoring trade connectivity between the two neighboring economies. The move could improve logistics efficiency and facilitate cross-border commerce in the Gulf region, although Emirati authorities have yet to officially comment on the development.

Iranian officials said direct cargo shipping services between the UAE and Iran have resumed, indicating that bilateral trade relations are gradually returning to normal. Ali Emami, Director-General of Logistics and Support at Iran’s Trade Development Organisation, stated that goods are once again being transported directly between the two countries.

The development follows recent signs of improving connectivity between the two nations. Earlier this week, Dubai International Airport reportedly received a direct flight from Tehran, with return services also resuming after disruptions linked to regional tensions and the recent conflict involving Iran. Iran had also announced the reactivation of trade exchanges through Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port and indicated that flights between the two countries would restart within days.

Renewed Shipping Routes Could Strengthen Gulf Trade Connectivity

The UAE and Iran have historically maintained strong commercial ties, with the UAE serving as one of Iran’s key trade and re-export partners. The restoration of direct cargo shipping routes is expected to ease supply chain pressures, reduce transit times, and lower logistics costs for businesses operating between the two markets.

For logistics providers, retailers, and e-commerce businesses, renewed maritime connectivity could create opportunities for more efficient movement of goods and strengthen regional trade flows at a time when companies are increasingly seeking resilient and diversified supply chains across the Middle East. However, operational details and the full scope of the resumption remain unclear, as Emirati authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding Iran’s announcement.

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Türkiye Announced That the Principles of the Customs Union Will Be Preserved in Cross-Border E-Commerce After the EU’s Customs Duty Decision

Türkiye’s Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat announced that despite the European Union’s (EU) decision to temporarily apply a 3-euro customs duty on low-value parcels worth up to 150 euros and imported from outside the EU into member states, the fundamental principles of the Customs Union between Türkiye and the EU will also be preserved in the field of cross-border e-commerce.

The Ministry of Trade issued a press release on the matter. The statement recalled that the EU’s practice of removing the customs exemption for e-commerce shipments under 150 euros from third countries and applying a 3-euro customs duty per item entered into force on July 1. The statement noted that the practice will continue until July 1, 2028, when the EU Customs Data Hub will be established, and stated that the simplified practice will be completely abolished as of that date.

Ömer Bolat: Initiatives Were Taken to Preserve the Legal Gains of the Türkiye-EU Customs Union

The statement also included the views of Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat. Pointing out that they carried out negotiations on behalf of Türkiye to preserve the Customs Union gains in cross-border e-commerce with the EU, Bolat said, “From the first day the preparations for the said regulation were initiated by the EU, the Ministry of Trade has carried out intensive diplomatic and technical initiatives before the European Commission in order to preserve the legal gains of the Türkiye-EU Customs Union.”

Bolat provided the following information: “The European Commission has notified that products in free circulation in Türkiye and sent to the EU through e-commerce accompanied by an ‘A.TR movement certificate’ may continue to benefit from the preferential regime under a simplified procedure within the scope of the H1 customs declaration. Thus, an important gain has been achieved in terms of preserving the fundamental principles of the Customs Union between Türkiye and the EU in the field of cross-border e-commerce as well.”

“Our Initiatives Continue for Our Country to Be Exempted from the Transaction Fee Practice”

Bolat stated that the ministry has not only taken initiatives to preserve existing rights, but has also simultaneously carried out the necessary technical infrastructure work in order to ensure that the preferential regime continues uninterrupted in practice for low-value e-commerce shipments. In this context, Bolat reported that a technical system has been established to enable express cargo operators to issue a simplified “A.TR movement certificate” for e-commerce shipments under 150 euros.

Ömer Bolat also pointed out that preparations regarding the implementation will be completed as soon as possible. Bolat said, “We will continue our contacts to ensure that the simplified system established with the EU is planned in an effective, uniform and practical manner within the EU, without imposing a burden on our e-exporters.”

“Our Initiatives Will Continue for the Continuation of Cross-Border E-Commerce”

In this context, Bolat stated that they will continue technical work with the European Commission without interruption in order to implement a permanent and stronger solution that will allow the use of the “A.TR movement certificate” also within the scope of the “H7 customs declaration” used by the EU in e-commerce, and said the following:

“On the other hand, our initiatives continue with determination for our country to be exempted from the transaction fee (handling fee) practice planned to be implemented by the EU in the coming period. Considering Türkiye’s advanced level of integration within the scope of the Customs Union and its high level of alignment in product safety and customs legislation, we state at every level before the European Commission that our country’s exemption from this practice is justified and necessary.

As the Ministry of Trade, we will continue with determination all our initiatives that will protect the competitiveness of our exporters and e-exporters in the EU market, strengthen the gains provided by the Customs Union and ensure the uninterrupted continuation of cross-border e-commerce.”

One Out Of Every Five Commercial Transactions İn Türkiye Comes From E-Commerce

TikTok Launches Digital Commerce Labs for Nigerian SMEs

TikTok, together with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), has launched the Digital Commerce Labs program, which aims to help small businesses in Nigeria participate more strongly in the digital economy. The first community event held in Lagos is considered an important step toward improving digital commerce skills in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The program was launched in cooperation with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF). The initiative aims to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and digital content creators become more competitive in the digitalizing economy.

The Social Commerce Opportunity Is Growing with TikTok

The social commerce market in Nigeria is expanding rapidly. According to forecasts, the market is expected to reach $2.04 billion in 2025 and approximately $4 billion by 2030. For many businesses in the country, social media has surpassed physical stores and become the main sales channel.

According to GSMA data, 56 percent of Nigerian businesses sell exclusively through social media platforms. This picture shows that platforms such as TikTok are now positioned not only as entertainment channels, but also as tools for commerce and growth.

Digital Commerce Is Now a Necessity

Dr. Henrietta Onwuegbuzie from Lagos Business School emphasized in her speech at the event that digital commerce is not a future-oriented option for Nigerian businesses, but a necessity of today. According to Onwuegbuzie, businesses with the right digital skills are already achieving concrete results in growth and market access.

Tokunbo Ibrahim, Acting Head of Public Policy and Government Relations for Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, stated that the cooperation aims to deliver the benefits of digital transformation to all small business owners. Ibrahim said that tools such as TikTok make discovery and purchasing decisions easier, creating more balanced competitive conditions for businesses of different sizes.

Training, Financial Literacy, and Access to Funding

The Digital Commerce Labs program offers a two-stage learning model. Starting in July, participants will be able to access online modules prepared by local experts. The training will cover topics such as building a professional digital presence, producing effective content, and using AI-powered e-commerce tools.

These modules will be supported by virtual classrooms led by trainers. LSETF will provide additional support in business sustainability, financial literacy, record-keeping, and legal advisory services. Market-ready businesses that complete the program will be able to gain the opportunity to access SME funding by joining LSETF’s financial ecosystem.

NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi described the cooperation as an important step in terms of Nigeria’s digitalization goals. ICC Deputy Secretary General Julian Kassum also stated that the program will open new pathways for entrepreneurship and employment for small businesses. Entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to participate in the program can obtain information about upcoming modules and register through the official Digital Commerce Labs portal.

Alibaba Sues Pentagon: The Company Wants to Be Removed from the 1260H List

Chinese e-commerce and technology giant Alibaba has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense for placing the company on the “1260H” list, which identifies it as a “Chinese military company.” In its filing with the San Jose federal court in California, the company argued that the Pentagon’s decision has no factual or legal basis.

On June 8, the U.S. Department of Defense expanded the 1260H list and added major Chinese companies such as Baidu, BYD, NIO and WuXi AppTec, along with Alibaba. The Pentagon claimed that these companies contribute to China’s defense industrial base as part of China’s military-civil fusion strategy.

Alibaba, however, rejected these allegations and asked the court to remove it from the list. The company described the decision as “arbitrary and disproportionate” and stated that “these findings have no basis in fact or law.”

“Alibaba Is Not a Military Company” Statement

In the lawsuit filing, the company stated that Alibaba has no connection to the Chinese military, is not part of China’s military-civil fusion strategy and is managed by an independent board of directors. The statement emphasized that none of the board members has any military ties.

Alibaba stated that its products and services were developed not for weapons, defense or intelligence, but for retail, logistics and enterprise information technologies. The company also argued that its business relationships and reputation in the U.S. have been harmed by this classification.

Pentagon Did Not Comment

The Pentagon announced that it does not comment on ongoing litigation. Although being placed on the “1260H” list does not directly mean an official sanction, it can create serious reputation risks and business restrictions for companies. Under current regulations, the Pentagon will not be able to enter into direct contracts with companies on the list starting this month; from 2027, it will also not be able to purchase these companies’ products and services through third parties.

U.S.-China Technology Tension Deepens

The Alibaba lawsuit is considered a new link in the growing tension between the U.S. and China over technology, national security and data security. WuXi AppTec had previously filed a similar lawsuit against being placed on the list. The Chinese side, meanwhile, responded to the U.S.’s latest moves with trade restrictions targeting some American companies. This process shows that global technology and e-commerce companies such as Alibaba are facing not only commercial competition, but also geopolitical risks and national security debates.

Turkic States Prepare for a New Era in Digital Trade

The domestic approval process continues in the countries under the “Digital Economy Partnership Agreement among the Governments of the Member States of the Organization of Turkic States”, which aims to develop digital trade among Turkic states. Türkiye became the 3rd country to complete the domestic approval process after Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

The “Digital Economy Partnership Agreement among the Governments of the Member States of the Organization of Turkic States” aims to facilitate e-commerce, digital trade services and cross-border data-based economic activities among the members of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS).

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan’s Approval Will Bring It into Force

Türkiye has completed the domestic approval process for the digital trade partnership agreement among OTS members, bringing the bloc closer to a new framework for digital trade and economic integration. The law approving the ratification of the agreement was published in Türkiye’s Official Gazette.

Thus, Türkiye became the third country after Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan to complete the domestic approval process for the agreement. The agreement will enter into force after Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan also complete their domestic approval procedures.

What Does the Digital Trade Agreement Promise?

The “Digital Economy Partnership Agreement among the Governments of the Member States of the Organization of Turkic States”, which aims to strengthen digital trade and economic integration among the member countries of the Organization of Turkic States, stands out as a strategic step in terms of digital transformation in the Turkic world. The agreement was signed on November 6, 2024, at the 11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The agreement aims to reduce barriers in the fields of e-commerce, digital services and cross-border data-based economic activities. Within this scope, it is aimed to create a more integrated, predictable and common rules-based digital economy framework among the member countries.

The Digital Economy Partnership Agreement is expected to strengthen commercial and technological integration among Turkic states, facilitate businesses’ access to digital markets, encourage the use of innovative technologies and increase regional competitiveness.

The agreement covers many critical topics such as digital trade, paperless trade, electronic transactions, e-invoicing, electronic signatures, electronic payments, express delivery services, logistics, online consumer protection, personal data protection and commercial electronic messages. In addition, it is envisaged to increase cooperation in the integration of small and medium-sized enterprises into the digital economy, financial technologies, cybersecurity and competition policy.

The agreement also contributes to deepening economic cooperation in the Turkic world on the basis of shared values, while paving the way for Turkic states to gain a stronger position in the global process in which digital trade rules are being shaped.

Digital Integration Is Accelerating Among the Turkic States

Use of AI and Premium Logistics in E-Commerce Is Rapidly Becoming Widespread in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), 51% of shoppers use AI-supported chat tools; 91% of businesses use AI on their e-commerce platforms; 84% expect to increase their use of AI; 84% prefer home delivery, while 73% prefer home collection for returns; 64% have a paid delivery/returns subscription; and 73% of businesses offer this subscription.

DHL eCommerce announced the key dynamics that will determine global e-commerce growth in 2026 and beyond. According to the data from the “E-Commerce Trends Report 2026”, which is based on a survey conducted with 29 thousand online shoppers and 5 thousand 800 e-commerce businesses in 29 countries, the future of online retail in rapidly digitalizing markets such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be shaped by artificial intelligence, flexible delivery options, sustainable logistics, secure payment experience and easy return processes.

DHL eCommerce’s 2026 E-Commerce Trends Report research revealed that the UAE e-commerce market is undergoing a rapid transformation with artificial intelligence, social commerce, marketplaces and premium logistics solutions. According to the research conducted with 29 thousand online shoppers and 5 thousand 800 e-commerce businesses, the UAE stands out as one of the most advanced markets in the adoption of AI-supported shopping tools.

AI Use in the UAE Is Becoming Central to E-Commerce

According to the report, 51% of online shoppers in the UAE use AI-supported chat tools while shopping. On the business side, the picture is stronger: 91% of e-commerce businesses in the UAE already use AI on their platforms. In addition, 84% of businesses expect AI use to increase further in the next 5 years.

According to DHL data, 52% of shoppers in the UAE expect to shop more through retailer websites in the next 5 years. 51% state that they will shop more on online marketplaces, 47% on mobile applications, and 37% through AI-supported chat or virtual assistants.

Delivery Preference in the UAE Remains Home-Oriented

The delivery experience plays a critical role in purchasing decisions in UAE e-commerce. According to the report, 84% of shoppers in the UAE prefer home delivery, while 73% prefer home collection for returns. However, out-of-home delivery options are also developing; 12% of shoppers use parcel lockers for delivery, while 23% use them for returns.

Premium logistics has also become mainstream in the UAE. In the UAE, 64% of shoppers have a paid delivery and returns subscription. While 73% of businesses already offer this service, 24% also plan to introduce this model.

Social Commerce Is Growing Increasingly in the UAE

On the business side, the data is as follows;

68% of UAE companies expect more customer activity through social media, 65% through applications, 64% through online marketplaces, and 59% through AI-supported chat or virtual assistants.
68% of shoppers in the UAE have made purchases through Facebook, 67% through Instagram, 57% through TikTok and 41% through YouTube.
82% of businesses have sold through Facebook, 75% through Instagram, 73% through TikTok and 52% through YouTube.
Amazon was identified as the most popular online marketplace for both shoppers and businesses in the UAE.

The UAE’s Strength Comes from a Digital Society and Strong Connections

DHL Express Middle East and North Africa CEO AbdulAziz Busbate stated that the UAE’s strength in the e-commerce market comes from high digitalization, strong global and regional connections, and a consumer base that rapidly adopts new online shopping habits. Busbate emphasized that digital platforms, flexible payment options and delivery expectations continue to shape the market, and stated that the growth foundation for businesses in the UAE is strong.

According to the report, the new competitive field of e-commerce in the UAE will not only be product price or campaign; it will be AI-supported customer experience, omnichannel sales, reliable delivery, easy returns and localized logistics solutions.

New Return Requirement for Online Stores in Europe: One-Click Cancellation Era Begins

A new return regulation for online stores in the European Union entered into force on Friday, June 19, 2026. Under the new practice, e-commerce businesses selling online to consumers in the EU will be required to provide a clearly visible and easily accessible “withdraw from contract” button on their websites or mobile applications.

The regulation aims to make consumers’ right of withdrawal in online shopping more accessible. This will allow consumers to cancel an order or initiate the contract withdrawal process as easily as they purchase a product.

The Return Button Must Be Easily Accessible

Under the new rule, online stores will not be able to require consumers to contact customer service, fill out lengthy forms, or navigate through complex menus. The return or withdrawal function must be presented to consumers in a clear and understandable manner.

The button or equivalent digital function must be labeled “withdraw from contract” or with a clear expression carrying the same meaning. When the consumer clicks this button, they will be directed to a confirmation page where they can view the relevant order or contract information. In the final step, there will be a second confirmation function similar to “confirm withdrawal.”

Which Legal Provisions Does the New Regulation Rely On?

The regulation is based on amendments to Directive 2011/83/EU, known as the EU Consumer Rights Directive. Directive (EU) 2023/2673 added a new Article 11a to this legislation. Article 11a makes it mandatory for consumers to be able to exercise their right of withdrawal through a digital function in distance B2C contracts concluded via an online interface.

The rule will apply to the sale of goods, services, digital content, digital services, and financial services within the scope of the regulation. The legislation covers not only EU-based businesses but also non-EU businesses selling to consumers in the EU.

Risks Are Increasing for Non-Compliant Businesses

Failure to comply with the new return regulation may have serious consequences for e-commerce businesses. According to assessments cited in the sources, if businesses fail to provide the required withdrawal button, the consumer’s 14-day withdrawal period may be extended. In addition, sanctions by national consumer protection authorities, administrative fines, and coordinated enforcement processes for cross-border infringements may come into play.

E-commerce businesses need to update their return policies, post-purchase processes, website interfaces, and application interfaces in line with this new regulation. According to experts, this step will strengthen consumer rights in Europe while increasing operational compliance pressure on online retailers.

Dubai CommerCity Joins UNIEF as Founding Member from the UAE at WORLDEF Istanbul 2026

Dubai CommerCity, the first free zone in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, dedicated to digital commerce, and a joint venture between the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and Wasl Properties, has officially joined the United E-Commerce Federation (UNIEF), an international, non-profit organisation registered in Geneva, Switzerland and headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, as a founding member. The membership marks a key milestone in strengthening international cooperation in e-commerce, digital trade, and cross-border commerce.

The membership agreement was signed during WORLDEF Istanbul 2026 on 13 June, in the presence of Ms. Amna Lootah, Director General of Dubai CommerCity, UNIEF President Ömer Nart, and UNIEF Secretary General Burak Yalım.

As part of the membership, Arjun Sarkar, Vice President of Digital Ecosystem and Partnerships at Dubai CommerCity, has been appointed as the organization’s representative to UNIEF. In this role, he will support the federation’s international activities and contribute to its global network of e-commerce stakeholders.

Dubai CommerCity’s founding membership reflects the growing role of the UAE as a strategic hub for digital commerce, innovation, and cross-border trade. As one of the region’s leading digital commerce-focused free zones, Dubai CommerCity is expected to deliver significant value to UNIEF’s mission of connecting global e-commerce ecosystems, fostering international collaboration, and promoting sustainable growth in digital trade.

Ms. Amna Lootah, Director General of Dubai CommerCity, welcomed the membership and underlined the importance of international collaboration in the digital economy.

“We are pleased to become a founding member of the United E-Commerce Federation, reaffirming our commitment to advancing the UAE’s position as a global hub for digital commerce. This milestone reflects Dubai CommerCity’s ongoing efforts to foster innovation, strengthen cross-border trade, and support the development of a connected and future-ready digital economy. As e-commerce continues to transform the way businesses connect, compete, and grow, partnerships such as UNIEF play an important role in strengthening international cooperation, advancing industry best practices, and accelerating sustainable growth across the global digital trade ecosystem,” Lootah said

Speaking on the significance of the membership, UNIEF President Ömer Nart emphasized that Dubai CommerCity’s participation represents a strategic milestone for the federation’s global vision.

“Dubai CommerCity is one of the most important digital commerce hubs in the region. Its participation as a founding member from the UAE will add strong value to UNIEF’s international network and support our mission to create a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable global e-commerce ecosystem,” Nart said.

Arjun Sarkar, who has been designated to represent Dubai CommerCity within UNIEF, said the membership would create new opportunities for knowledge exchange and international cooperation.

“We look forward to contributing to the federation’s global initiatives and working closely with international partners to support the future of e-commerce,” Sarkar said.

UNIEF Secretary General Burak Yalım also highlighted the federation’s growing international momentum, noting that UNIEF has received strong interest from countries across different regions.

“UNIEF is growing with a strong global vision. We have held talks with representatives and stakeholders from 39 countries and received very positive feedback. Fourteen of these countries have already joined UNIEF as founding members. This shows that there is a real need for a global platform that brings together the key actors of e-commerce and digital trade,” Yalım said.

The signing at WORLDEF Istanbul 2026 also underlined the event’s role as a global meeting point for e-commerce leaders. Bringing together public institutions, retailers, marketplaces, brands, technology providers, logistics companies, and digital trade enablers from different regions, WORLDEF Istanbul continues to serve as a platform for high-level partnerships and international business development.

Through Dubai CommerCity’s participation as a founding member from the UAE, UNIEF further strengthens its international network and reinforces its commitment to advancing collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth across the global e-commerce and digital trade landscape.

Türkiye Became Europe’s Fastest-Growing E-Commerce Market

Türkiye ranked first in terms of growth expectations in the European e-commerce market. According to the projections of Germany-based e-commerce data company ECDB for the 2025-2029 period, Türkiye became Europe’s fastest-growing e-commerce market with an expected average annual growth rate of 12.9 percent.

In the prepared top 10 list, Bulgaria followed Türkiye with an expected growth rate of 12.5 percent. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Malta shared third place with an annual growth forecast of 10 percent. Russia ranked fifth on the list with an expected growth rate of 9.8 percent, while Poland was also shown among the countries representing stable e-commerce expansion in Central Europe.

Türkiye’s Young and Digitally Open Consumer Base Played a Role in Its Ranking at the Top of the List

Türkiye’s ranking at the top of the list was driven by the country’s population of approximately 86 million, its young and digitally open consumer base, its developing marketplace ecosystem, logistics infrastructure, and the rapid spread of online shopping habits. It was stated that online spending in Türkiye reached approximately 86 billion euros last year and recorded 16 percent year-on-year growth.

It is noteworthy that the strongest e-commerce growth in Europe is concentrated particularly in Eastern and Southeastern European countries. In these regions, the fact that e-commerce is still in the development phase, digital infrastructure investments, the expansion of marketplaces, and consumers’ increasing adaptation to online shopping are among the main factors supporting growth.

Türkiye’s rise to a leading position in European e-commerce growth strengthens the country’s potential to become a regional hub in digital trade. Its rapidly growing domestic market, cross-border sales opportunities, logistics capabilities, and strong marketplace structure make Türkiye a strategic market for both local brands and international players.

E-Commerce Volume in Türkiye Exceeded 115 billion USD