E-Commerce News & Trends

The New Face of E-Commerce in Kenya: Democratizing Sales via WhatsApp and Its SEO Impact

Kenya’s digital commerce sector is undergoing a rapid transformation thanks to an innovative platform called Flowcart. Flowcart offers a WhatsApp-based sales solution that simplifies digitalization for small and medium-sized businesses, significantly contributing to the democratization of e-commerce. This system presents great opportunities for sellers with limited internet access or without complex e-commerce infrastructure.

WhatsApp and E-Commerce SEO: The Key to Digital Transformation

By enabling businesses to manage sales from product catalogs to payment processes through WhatsApp, Flowcart provides full control over the sales journey. Its AI-powered chatbots personalize customer experiences and enable quick responses. These features not only enhance customer satisfaction but also strengthen businesses’ digital presence. From an SEO perspective, integrating popular platforms like WhatsApp positively affects online visibility and customer reach.

Flowcart’s low technological requirements combined with the high WhatsApp usage among Kenya’s internet users increase accessibility and accelerate e-commerce growth. As a result, Flowcart supports the development of Kenya’s e-commerce ecosystem and enables more effective use of digital marketing and SEO strategies.

This innovative model serves as an example for expanding e-commerce and accelerating digitalization across the African continent. Allowing businesses to sell via WhatsApp carries significant economic and social transformation implications.

Amazon Blocks Google’s AI Shopping Agents: The Future of AI in E-Commerce

Recently, Amazon has taken a decisive step by blocking Google’s AI-powered shopping agents from accessing its e-commerce platform. This move reflects Amazon’s strategic focus on developing and prioritizing its own artificial intelligence (AI) shopping assistants within its ecosystem. By adding Google’s AI agents to its “robots.txt” file, Amazon effectively prevents external AI tools from operating on its site, signaling a clear boundary for third-party AI automation.

This decision aligns with similar actions by other major e-commerce players like Shopify, which has also restricted AI bots that automate purchasing processes, such as “buy-for-me” agents. These measures indicate a broader industry trend: e-commerce platforms want to control AI-driven shopping experiences, favoring their proprietary systems over external competitors.

AI in E-Commerce: Strategic Control and Competitive Advantage

The growing integration of AI agents into online shopping highlights both opportunities and challenges for e-commerce platforms. While AI can enhance customer experience by providing personalized recommendations and automating purchases, allowing external AI agents unrestricted access poses risks in terms of data security, user privacy, and platform control.

Amazon’s strategy to limit third-party AI reflects an effort to maintain competitive advantage by shaping how AI shopping tools interact with its marketplace. This approach ensures that the benefits of AI-driven commerce—such as improved efficiency and personalization—are channeled through their own technology, rather than enabling competitors.

In conclusion, Amazon’s blocking of Google’s AI shopping agents underscores a critical development in the evolving relationship between AI technologies and e-commerce platforms. It raises important questions about control, competition, and the future landscape of AI-enhanced online retail.

Unlocking E-Commerce in Africa: The Importance of Financing and Digital Infrastructure

Africa is experiencing rapid growth in the digital commerce sector, with e-commerce volumes expanding year after year. However, there are key challenges preventing the continent from fully realizing this potential. Chief among these is the difficulty medium-sized businesses face in accessing financing. While microfinance institutions support smaller enterprises, appropriate credit and investment options remain limited for mid-sized firms. Traditional banks often hesitate to invest in this area due to perceived high risks.

Innovative Approaches to E-Commerce Financing and Digital Transformation

To overcome these challenges, data-driven financing models are gaining prominence. Utilizing digital data such as e-commerce sales, inventory status, and customer feedback can improve credit assessment processes and help businesses access funding more easily. Moreover, data sharing between payment systems, logistics providers, and banks enables more accurate risk analysis.

Public-private partnerships that develop blended finance models facilitate access to capital through risk-sharing mechanisms, increasing the growth potential of businesses. The widespread adoption of mobile payment systems and strengthening of digital infrastructure in Africa also support e-commerce’s reach to broader audiences. This not only accelerates economic development but also delivers social benefits.

In conclusion, unlocking e-commerce in Africa requires easing access to financing and supporting digital transformation. These two elements form the foundation for a stronger digital commerce ecosystem and sustainable growth across the continent.

E-Commerce Tax Revenue in Kyrgyzstan Grows by 17.9% in the First Half of 2025

In the first half of 2025, Kyrgyzstan saw a 17.9% increase in tax revenue generated from e-commerce activities. This growth reflects a combination of rising online sales volumes and more effective tax monitoring systems, in line with the country’s broader digital economic transformation. A particularly notable rise was observed in taxes collected from foreign digital service providers, while local online businesses also began contributing more consistently.

During this period, local e-commerce stores contributed approximately 31 million Kyrgyz soms in taxes. According to government data, total tax revenue from e-commerce in 2024 had already increased nearly sixfold compared to the same period the previous year. This rapid growth is directly linked to the effective implementation of a 2% digital services tax rate introduced on electronic trade activities.

Digital Growth Drives E-Commerce Tax Collection

Data released by the Kyrgyz Ministry of Finance indicates that tax revenue from January to May 2025 alone reached 31 million soms. This demonstrates that digital sales are now a sustainable source of public revenue. Under national tax regulations, companies and individual entrepreneurs conducting online sales are subject to a 2% e-commerce tax. This obligation particularly applies to those selling through digital service providers and online marketplaces.

The Kyrgyz government introduced this taxation policy to support digital economy development and formalize previously unreported income streams. Platforms like Akta and Portal have enhanced transaction tracking, improving compliance and simplifying reporting processes. These systems have helped increase transparency within the e-commerce sector while contributing positively to the state budget.

In summary, the 17.9% increase in Kyrgyzstan’s e-commerce tax revenue in the first half of 2025 highlights how effective digital policies and tax enforcement can generate meaningful economic results. Expanding tax obligations for both local and foreign e-commerce players is proving beneficial for the country’s economic stability.

BigCommerce Rebrands as Commerce, Entering a New Era of AI‑Driven E‑Commerce

BigCommerce, a long-standing provider of e-commerce infrastructure solutions, announced a major transformation in 2025 as it rebrands under the new name “Commerce.” This strategic shift is far more than a visual makeover—it signals a deep evolution in the company’s technology and service model. Now operating as “Commerce.com, Inc.,” the brand brings together BigCommerce, Feedonomics, and Makeswift under one unified corporate identity.

At the heart of this change lies a concept the company calls “agentic commerce.” In this new model, shopping is not only conducted by people but also by AI-powered digital agents. These agents can search for products, make recommendations, and even complete purchases on behalf of users. The Commerce brand aims to provide future-ready infrastructure that aligns with this AI-driven vision of e-commerce.

A New Era in AI‑Driven E‑Commerce Infrastructure

With this rebranding, Commerce offers businesses faster growth, flexible deployment, and greater operational efficiency. BigCommerce continues to provide its adaptable platform, while Feedonomics enables optimized product catalog syndication across global digital channels. Makeswift allows brands to build custom storefronts through intuitive, drag‑and‑drop tools. Together, these three components create a modular and comprehensive commerce ecosystem.

As AI changes how consumers discover and interact with products, Commerce delivers data‑driven solutions that help brands remain visible and competitive in a shifting digital landscape. Multi‑storefront management, B2B capabilities, pricing optimization, and personalization are just some of the advanced features available. Through this transformation, Commerce isn’t just changing its name—it’s redefining its role in the global e-commerce industry.

The End of the US De Minimis Exemption Will Impact E-Commerce and Logistics Sectors

Starting August 29, 2025, the United States announced it will end the “de minimis” exemption for low-value imports from all countries. Previously, this exemption applied only to shipments from China and Hong Kong, allowing goods below a certain value to enter the US without customs duties. However, with the new regulation, all low-value packages entering US borders will now be subject to customs taxes.

This decision marks a significant turning point for international e-commerce platforms and logistics companies. With the removal of the de minimis exemption, all goods valued under $800 will now be taxed. This means increased costs for small and medium-sized shipments, especially those coming from China to the US. E-commerce sites will have to rethink their pricing strategies due to this new application.

Expected Changes in E-Commerce and Logistics

The broader application of customs duties may lead to higher prices for consumers. Shoppers who previously could purchase products for free or at low costs may now face additional charges. This could result in a decline in sales volumes for e-commerce platforms. Additionally, the air cargo and logistics sectors may see a decrease in shipment volumes due to this development. A reduction in air cargo traffic between China and the US is anticipated, which may require the adjustment of transportation capacities.

In conclusion, the US decision to end the de minimis exemption is seen as a major step that will change the dynamics of international trade. Both e-commerce companies and logistics providers will need to reshape their strategies to adapt to the new conditions.

GMG and Amazon Form Strategic Partnership to Transform Digital Retail Experience in MENA Region

Global health and retail company GMG has announced a strategic partnership with Amazon aimed at transforming the online shopping experience across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This collaboration focuses on offering attractive prices and deals in GMG’s core categories such as Sports, Health & Beauty, and Daily Essentials.

GMG’s New Vision for Digital Retail

As part of the partnership, GMG and Amazon will ensure faster delivery of high-demand products in food, lifestyle, and health categories. They also aim to increase access to GMG’s globally recognized and trusted brands, responding to the growing demand for fast, convenient, and quality service.

Through this agreement, GMG will accelerate its omnichannel strategy by leveraging Amazon’s best practices in artificial intelligence (AI), logistics, and customer service technologies. This move supports GMG’s vision to shape the future of retail in the region by seamlessly integrating its strong physical retail presence with digital experiences.

Mohammad A. Baker, GMG’s Vice Chairman and CEO, stated, “This partnership with Amazon marks a significant milestone in our digital commerce strategy. As consumer behaviors evolve, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences powered by technology, speed, and relevance.”

Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, added, “We are proud to collaborate with GMG, a partner that shares our innovative spirit, customer-centric focus, and long-term thinking.”

Gambian Entrepreneur Ebrima Fatty Builds Africa-Focused Digital Marketplace

Ebrima Fatty, with over two decades of experience in both finance and technology, is reshaping e-commerce across Africa through AfricaSokoni, the London-based online marketplace he founded in 2017. The platform connects local producers, retailers, and artisans—particularly in East Africa, including Kenya—to regional consumer demand via a user-friendly online interface.

Ebrima Fatty’s AfricaSokoni: Supporting SMEs and Connecting Markets

AfricaSokoni—which means “market” in Swahili—empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), farmers, and artisans by providing tools for inventory management, automated ordering, and supplier relationship support. The platform also offers financing, marketing assistance, packaging solutions, and logistic partnerships, creating new export opportunities for local producers.

Consumers benefit from access to a wide array of goods—ranging from electronics and fashion to home appliances and telecom products—through a streamlined online shopping experience. AfricaSokoni integrates order tracking, stock updates, and supplier coordination features that help stabilize supply chains and improve reliability for both businesses and end-users.

Besides entrepreneurship, Ebrima Fatty serves as a product manager at the Islamic Development Bank in Saudi Arabia, combining his public-sector insights with private-sector innovation. He earned a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria in 2000, and began his professional career as a senior auditor at Deloitte that same year. Between 2001 and 2005, he served as financial controller for The Gambia’s Capacity Building for Economic Management Project, contributing to reforms in economic policy and private sector development.

Under his leadership, AfricaSokoni focuses on transforming local markets into regionally integrated digital networks. Fatty’s dual background in finance and technology fuels the platform’s mission: to empower African microentrepreneurs, enhance digital trade infrastructure, and expand cross-border e-commerce opportunities. His work signals a growing paradigm in African tech—where homegrown solutions and digital innovation drive inclusive economic growth.

Mataa Secures Investment to Expand Digital Commerce in Libya and North Africa

Mataa, a key player in North Africa’s digital commerce sector, has successfully completed a seed funding round to expand its operations in the region. This investment will strengthen the company’s goal of removing barriers to digital trade and delivering innovative solutions, particularly in Libya and its surrounding markets. Mataa aims to provide consumers with a faster, more reliable, and accessible shopping experience across the region.

Mataa’s Vision to Strengthen Digital Commerce Infrastructure

With this funding, Mataa plans significant improvements in logistics and digital payment infrastructure. The company is developing innovative technologies to overcome the challenges faced by e-commerce in the region, offering solutions that simplify processes for both sellers and buyers. The founding team, led by CEO Ibrahim Shuwehdi, is focused on driving the growth of the digital economy, especially in emerging markets like Libya.

According to Ibrahim Shuwehdi, this investment marks a crucial milestone for Mataa’s mission to accelerate the adoption of digital commerce and create new economic opportunities across North Africa.

The financial support from investors will enable Mata a to strengthen regional supply chains and optimize digital payment systems. Additionally, new projects aimed at enhancing customer experience are set to be launched. These initiatives are considered crucial for unlocking North Africa’s digital economy potential.

Mataa’s success is seen not only as a milestone for its own growth but also as a positive signal for the development of the venture capital ecosystem in the region. The rapid expansion of digital commerce in Libya and surrounding areas is expected to make a significant contribution to the region’s economic development.

“E-Commerce Will Evolve Significantly in 2025”

Vincenzo Toscano, Founder and CEO of Ecomcy, shared the company’s story with WORLDEF E-COMMERCE. Toscano said, “E-commerce will evolve significantly in 2025,” and shared the trends in e-commerce.

Ecomcy helps brands and businesses succeed in highly competitive marketplaces such as Amazon and Walmart. The company aims to provide innovative, data-driven strategies that optimize sales performance, increase profitability, and build a strong brand presence. Ecomcy strives not only to be a service provider but also to be a trusted partner in its clients’ growth journey.

Vincenzo Toscano stated that the e-commerce consulting industry is highly competitive, with many agencies offering similar services. He explained the areas in which Ecomcy differentiates itself as follows: “We understand that every brand is unique, so we craft strategies that align with each client’s specific goals. Having worked with clients across the US, Europe, and Asia, we bring a global perspective to local markets. Our focus on measurable results ensures that every strategy delivers tangible growth. We prioritize building relationships that go beyond transactional services, aiming to be trusted advisors for our clients.”

What does Ecomcy offer to Amazon and Walmart sellers?

Amazon DSP Management: Advanced programmatic advertising strategies to target high-value audiences and increase brand visibility.
PPC Campaign Management: Custom strategies to optimize ad spend, improve ROI, and boost organic ranking.
SEO and Listing Optimization: Keyword-rich copywriting, image enhancements, and A+ Content to maximize conversion rates.
Product Launch Strategies: Data-driven plans to ensure successful product rollouts, including influencer marketing and promotional tactics.
Inventory and Supply Chain Management: Streamlined processes to prevent stockouts and optimize fulfillment costs.
Market and Competitor Analysis: Insights into market trends and competitive performance to make informed business decisions.

“E-commerce will evolve significantly in 2025”

Toscano also shared his predictions for the e-commerce ecosystem in 2025. “E-commerce will evolve significantly in 2025,” said Toscano, outlining some key trends as follows: “AI-driven tools will allow sellers to offer hyper-personalized experiences to their customers. Consumers will increasingly demand sustainable products and transparent supply chains.

Brands will need to blend their online and offline strategies seamlessly to capture more market share. Specialized, niche products will gain traction as consumers seek unique solutions tailored to their needs. From customer support to advertising, AI will continue to optimize and streamline processes for sellers.”

Who is Vincenzo Toscano?

Vincenzo Toscano is a seasoned e-commerce expert and entrepreneur with a rich background in helping brands thrive on platforms like Amazon and Walmart. Born in Italy and raised in Venezuela, Vincenzo moved to London, where he honed his skills over eight years, driving success for businesses in the competitive world of online retail.

As the founder of Ecomcy, a UK-based agency specializing in Amazon and Walmart marketing optimization, Vincenzo has built a reputation for delivering tailored strategies that transform businesses. Under his leadership, Ecomcy has become a trusted partner for brands globally, known for its data-driven campaigns, innovative approaches, and client-centric philosophy.

Vincenzo’s journey is marked by his passion for empowering brands to unlock their full potential. Through Ecomcy, he has redefined how businesses approach e-commerce, combining cutting-edge technology, deep market insights, and a personalized touch to help clients achieve sustainable growth.

His efforts have not only boosted sales and visibility for numerous brands but have also enabled them to build stronger connections with their audiences worldwide. Vincenzo’s mission is clear: to revolutionize the e-commerce landscape by offering unparalleled expertise and solutions that drive real impact for brands, no matter their size or industry.