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Mandatory “Product Safety Certificate” for Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms Selling in Türkiye

The Ministry of Trade has put cross-border e-commerce under scrutiny. With the regulation that came into effect in April, the Ministry had introduced an obligation for companies that do not have manufacturers in Türkiye and sell solely through imports to “appoint a representative.” Additionally, a $30 purchase limit, including shipping, was set.

Product Safety Takes Center Stage in Cross-Border E-Commerce!

The Ministry of Trade is requiring cross-border e-commerce platforms and marketplaces that fail to appoint representatives in Türkiye to issue a “product safety certificate” for every product sold in Türkiye!

Accordingly, products without quality certificates will not be allowed to enter Türkiye. These include, foremost, shoes, textiles, apparel, toys, kitchen, and bathroom products. This step is taken to prevent products that may threaten public health or contain carcinogenic or harmful chemicals. Products without a product safety certificate will not be allowed to be sold in Türkiye through cross-border e-commerce.

Temu Could Not Appoint a Representative in Türkiye!

Meanwhile, it is claimed that the regulation targets Temu. Accordingly, the Ministry of Trade published the “Market Surveillance and Inspection Regulation for Products Marketed via Remote Communication Tools” on April 1, 2025, to protect public health and reduce consumption imports. Despite this regulation, Temu could not appoint a representative in Türkiye!

In 2024, Temu sent an average of 50,000 shipments daily to Türkiye. It is stated that the platform reached 200,000 daily shipments in the first five months of 2025. While these developments were unfolding, Temu officials were summoned to the Ministry of Trade on May 16, 2025.
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According to the regulation, manufacturers who are not in Türkiye and those marketing products through an importer or cross-border e-commerce must “appoint a representative.” Platforms that do not comply with this rule and fail to appoint a representative despite verbal warnings may face access bans.

“They Will Face Problems with Products Not Published on Their Pages Entering Türkiye”

Deputy Minister of Trade Mahmut Gürcan said the following about the issue on a radio program: “When you shop from Temu, products come directly from Chinese workshops to your home without any product safety inspection or examination for carcinogenic or harmful substances. This is actually a very problematic situation.

Now, we want these companies to publish their certificates on their pages. They will face problems with products not published on their pages entering Türkiye. While we have regulated platforms in Türkiye and are applying certain sanctions to them, we do not intend to allow this much free rein from abroad; we are monitoring the situation.”

 

The Impact of U.S. Tariffs on E-Commerce: From Global Constraints to Local Opportunities

What Technology Means for Real Estate in Dubai—And Why It’s Personal

Real estate in Dubai isn’t just changing—it’s evolving into something more innovative, connected, and human. And I say that not as a technologist but as a marketer who sees daily how innovation transforms not only what we build but also how people experience it. At QUBE Development, we don’t view technology as a separate layer. It’s embedded in our philosophy. It’s part of how we design, sell, and stay ahead in one of the world’s most competitive property markets. And in Dubai, that edge matters.

In 2024, the city recorded AED 761 billion (USD 207.2 billion) in real estate transactions—a 20% increase year-over-year (Dubai Land Department). But behind those numbers is a deeper story—a shift. What once drove decisions—price, location, finish—is now intersecting with something less tangible: experience, access, data, and trust.

Why PropTech Isn’t a Trend; It’s Infrastructure

Dubai has been intentional about turning PropTech into more than a buzzword. The Dubai Land Department’s blockchain-led initiatives, like Real Estate Tokenisation, create new investment pathways. Suddenly, fractional property ownership isn’t a futuristic concept—it’s a live offering (Kanebridge News). For marketers like me, that changes the conversation. We’re not just talking about property features anymore—we’re talking about financial access, flexibility, and new kinds of ownership models.

We’ve seen it up close at QUBE. Investors are asking more thoughtful questions. End-users are looking for more than floor plans—they want to understand the future value of a space, the tech infrastructure inside, and even the environmental impact.

AI and Data: Redrawing the Map of Demand

Artificial intelligence has reshaped how we identify demand and communicate it. We use AI-powered tools at QUBE to analyse everything from market gaps to buyer behaviour. We can predict where interest is trending before the market catches on. These platforms don’t just analyze trends—they actively shape strategy.

On the customer side, that means better targeting. Fewer cold leads. More relevant, timely engagement. We’ve moved past “lead generation.” Now it’s about connection, clarity, and context.

Even basic CRM systems are evolving. Chatbots now answer inquiries 24/7 with tailored property suggestions. Predictive analytics suggest what a customer wants based on their browsing. This is no longer theoretical—it’s happening now and reshaping how we market and sell real estate in real time (Techloy).

  • “Technology is how we deliver value. But trust is what we’re really selling.”

Immersive Tech and the End of Showrooms

Let me say something you wouldn’t have heard a decade ago: You don’t need to walk into a building to fall in love with it. With VR and AR tools, clients are touring off-plan properties in full 3D before a shovel even hits the ground. They can stand in the kitchen, look out the window, and check the lighting. It’s not a substitute—it’s an accelerant. This has completely shifted how we approach marketing assets at QUBE. We design virtual experiences before printing brochures, storyboard immersive tours before launching landing pages, and the feedback is immediate, measurable, and global—especially among overseas buyers who see Dubai as a gateway market.

Smart Living Is Not a Luxury; it’s the New Standard

Dubai’s real estate sector is heavily investing in IoT-powered homes, and that’s not just a nod to tech—it’s an answer to lifestyle. From remote-controlled climate systems to real-time energy monitoring and biometric security, homes are becoming smarter, safer, and more efficient.

QUBE is already integrating these features across developments. Not because it’s trendy, but because buyers now expect it. And frankly, so do we. It’s how we future-proof our product. At QUBE, digital innovation is filtered through one lens: customer clarity. We design platforms that empower buyers, not overwhelm them. Whether it’s a streamlined reservation journey, instant virtual walkthroughs, or a post-handover digital concierge, our technology starts with empathy. That’s what today’s buyers remember.

What Comes Next: People-First Innovation

In a market as fast-moving as Dubai, technology isn’t the endgame—it’s the enabler. What matters is why we use it. For us at QUBE, that answer is simple: to build trust, deepen relationships, and deliver homes that make sense today and for generations to come.

What We Offer?

At QUBE Development, we deliver more than property—we deliver opportunity. Our curated portfolio includes residential projects in Dubai’s most high-potential locations, selected for their proven rental yields, long-term capital growth, and vibrant livability. Each development is thoughtfully designed with international standards in mind—offering smart layouts, high-quality finishes, lifestyle-focused amenities, and sustainable infrastructure. Whether you’re looking for off-plan opportunities, soon to be ready units, or branded residences, QUBE properties are built in places where demand thrives and value grows.

What We’re Looking For?

At QUBE, we’re building for people who see real estate not just as a purchase—but as a platform for growth, lifestyle, and long-term value. Whether you’re an investor seeking a solid addition to your portfolio or an end-user planning a new chapter in Dubai, we’re creating developments that meet your ambitions. We’re looking to engage with those who appreciate thoughtful design, future-ready infrastructure, and a developer committed to delivery, transparency, and purpose. Our objective is not just to sell—it’s to create lasting value through properties that speak to both aspiration and practicality.

  • About Asmae Boussouf

Asmae is, a seasoned real estate marketing expert known for engaging both B2B and B2C audiences with precision and impact. With experience across commercial and residential sectors, locally and internationally, she builds strategies that connect and deliver results. Before joining QUBE Development, Asmae held senior roles at Aldar Properties, Dubai Commercity (DAFZA), Nakheel, and Al Ghurair Investment. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Management Science, and a master’s in Strategic Marketing—reflecting her commitment to excellence and growth.

Dubai’s E-Commerce Market to Reach $13.8 Billion by 2029

The “MENA Region E-Commerce Report 2024” was published by EZDubai. According to the report, which is supported by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai is experiencing a transformative e-commerce boom. According to the report, Dubai’s e-commerce market reached $8.8 billion (AED 32.3 billion) in 2024. By 2029, the market will reach $13.8 billion (AED 50.6 billion).

Dubai’s E-Commerce Market Develops Through Mobile!

Dubai’s e-commerce market is developing under the leadership of mobile commerce. More than 75% of all shopping takes place through smartphones. Consumers frequently use WhatsApp Business, Instagram Shopping, and mobile-friendly websites.

The fintech sector also plays an important role in shaping consumer behaviors. The share of online transactions made with digital wallets increased from 41% in 2020 to 53%. On the other hand, “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) services such as Tabby and Tamara have been widely adopted, especially among Gen Z and Millennials.

70% of consumers in the UAE shop online at least once a month. This increases expectations regarding speed, service, and personalization. Consumers now demand free same-day delivery, easy returns, real-time tracking, and personalized shopping experiences.

MENA E-Commerce Market Reached $34.5 Billion

Dubai also plays a leading role in shaping the regional e-commerce ecosystem. According to the report, the total e-commerce market of the MENA region reached $34.5 billion (AED 126.7 billion) in 2024. The MENA e-commerce market volume is expected to rise to $57.8 billion (AED 212.2 billion) by 2029.

Dubai’s advanced digital infrastructure, regulatory model, and investment momentum are also being exported to neighboring economies such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Companies like Amazon, Noon, and DHL Express benefit from the integrated logistics corridor by using EZDubai as a regional fulfillment center.

About EZDubai

EZDubai was established in 2019. It is the first dedicated e-commerce zone in the region. It is located in Dubai South. The zone covers an area of more than 920,000 square meters. It is strategically located between Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port. Thanks to this location, it provides logistical access that enables same-day and next-day delivery, especially to GCC countries. GCC is a regional union consisting of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain.

 

UAE e-commerce market reaches $8.80 billion

Amazon’s Agreement with Stellantis Has Been Suspended

The agreement between Amazon and Stellantis aimed to integrate Alexa-supported infotainment and e-commerce services into Chrysler, Fiat, and Vauxhall vehicles. The three-year SmartCockpit collaboration was mutually suspended. Amazon and Stellantis will continue to cooperate on AWS and Alexa integrations.

The agreement was made as an initiative to transform the car interior into a living space with technologies such as voice-controlled navigation, personalized climate settings, and automatic lighting. However, the agreement ended amid the complexity of merging Silicon Valley software with traditional automotive manufacturing processes.

Stellantis’ SmartCockpit Project Was Based on Amazon’s In-Vehicle Technology

Stellantis’ SmartCockpit project was based on Amazon’s in-vehicle technology and represents an example of the challenges traditional automakers face when cooperating with Silicon Valley to implement more sophisticated software. The integration of SmartCockpit into vehicles was planned between the end of 2024 and early 2025. This system was part of the ABC platform, along with Stellantis’ electric architecture STLA Brain and the Autodrive driving assistance system.

According to the agreement, Stellantis would pay Amazon software access and maintenance fees per vehicle. In return, Amazon would make incentive payments to Stellantis if drivers subscribed to services like music subscriptions from within the car.

According to Reuters, the mutual suspension of the agreement was confirmed by the companies.

 

Amazon Plans to Show New Tariffs in Prices to Consumers!

UAE e-commerce market reaches $8.80 billion

The fifth edition of the “2024 E-Commerce Report in the MENA Region” published by EZDubai, a free zone fully dedicated to e-commerce under Dubai South, was prepared in cooperation with Euromonitor International, the world’s leading provider of global business intelligence, market analysis, and consumer insights.

The UAE’s e-commerce sector continues to grow thanks to a tech-savvy young population with a strong inclination towards online shopping, advanced infrastructure, widespread internet access, and efficient delivery services. As of 2024, the top three product categories by value were apparel and footwear, consumer electronics, and home care products.

Digital wallet usage increased in the UAE

According to Euromonitor’s Digital Consumer Survey:

  • Credit and debit cards were the most frequently used payment methods in the UAE.
  • Digital wallet usage increased significantly from 41 percent in 2020 to 53 percent in 2024.
  • Alternative payment options such as “Buy Now, Pay Later” are also gaining popularity, increasing both conversion rates and average basket values. This indicates consumer confidence in flexible payment solutions.
  • Free delivery and free returns are among the strongest driving forces of e-commerce in the UAE.
  • Retailers offer these advantages strategically to increase customer satisfaction while managing logistics carefully so as not to affect profitability.

MENA e-commerce market reaches $34.5 billion

Regionally, the MENA e-commerce market reached $34.5 billion (AED 126.7 billion) in 2024. It recorded a year-on-year growth of 13 percent. This growth was driven by the rise of mobile commerce and cross-border transactions. The market is expected to reach $57.8 billion (AED 212.2 billion) by 2029.

  • Growth, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is supported by infrastructure investments, government-backed digital initiatives, and a highly connected consumer base.
  • Between 2019 and 2024, food, beverage, and home care products showed significant growth, and this trend is expected to expand to other categories.
  • The expansion of cross-border e-commerce in the MENA region is gaining momentum thanks to growing demand for international products, improved logistics and payment infrastructures, and more efficient customs processes.

“The e-commerce sector in the UAE is undergoing rapid transformation”

Commenting on the matter, Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District at Dubai South, said: “The e-commerce sector in the UAE is undergoing rapid transformation, and we at EZDubai are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. By providing world-class infrastructure and seamless connectivity, we enable global and regional players to grow and scale.

This growth is also supported by the UAE government’s visionary policies, smart regulations, and sustainable investments in digital transformation, logistics, and infrastructure. As a result, the UAE is not only strengthening its position as the leading e-commerce hub in the MENA region but also emerging as a competitive global player shaping the future of digital commerce.”

About EZDubai

EZDubai was designed to attract leading e-commerce companies and to create a benchmark with its infrastructure. Launched in January 2019 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the e-commerce zone is strategically located in the heart of the Logistics District of Dubai South.

Omar Nart: We have established a strategic e-commerce triangle between Istanbul, Dubai, and Riyadh

The region’s largest e-commerce fair, WORLDEF ISTANBUL, held for the 12th time this year, was organized at Istanbul Yenikapı Event Area on May 15-16-17, 2025. The fair brought together global e-commerce brands. WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart spoke to an AA reporter about the fair and the e-commerce ecosystem.

Omar Nart: We will organize the WORLDEF RIYADH event in October

He stated that WORLDEF was held in Dubai for the first time last year and that this year, for the first time, the “WORLDEF RIYADH” event will be held in Riyadh in October. Nart added that they will organize the second edition of WORLDEF DUBAI in February next year. He emphasized that the structure established between these three central cities is important for Turkish e-commerce and retail brands.

Omar Nart stated that they have established a strategic e-commerce triangle between Istanbul, Dubai, and Riyadh to facilitate the expansion of Turkish e-commerce brands into cross-border markets, and said: “Last year, we brought together 35 Turkish manufacturers with international buyers in Dubai. In October, we expect to see much greater interest in Riyadh. While planning these events, we adopt a multinational and multi-participant approach. This year as well, we aim to bring companies with high cross-border sales potential into these markets.”

“We want to facilitate exports with systems supported by digital infrastructure”

Explaining that the events are designed with a multinational and broad participation approach, Nart stated that they want to facilitate exports of Turkish brands with systems supported by digital infrastructure. Nart added:

“When you engage in traditional exports, there are difficulties such as opening a showroom in the respective country and associated costs. But in e-commerce, when you enter major platforms and establish the right infrastructure quickly, you have the opportunity to make a rapid start. Therefore, we provide service provider infrastructure at these events to all stakeholders, enabling this rapid start.”

“The financial dimension of e-commerce will be addressed with FINTECHX”

Nart stated that with WORLDEF’s new event “FINTECHX”, they will address the financial dimension of e-commerce and noted that they expect participation from more than 20 countries at the event to be held in Sapanca on September 24-25 this year. Nart said:

“E-commerce has two channels: one is logistics, the other is fintech. We see a significant gap in the fintech field. In e-commerce, you must be able to collect payment before delivering the product. The purpose of the event is to connect local fintech companies with cross-border business partners. The event will also serve as a platform that brings together potential customers and service providers.”

“Artificial intelligence has opened the door to a new era in e-commerce”

Stating that the impact of artificial intelligence on the sector was among the most discussed topics at the event, Omar Nart emphasized that the technology is transforming customer experience and operational processes. Omar Nart noted that artificial intelligence, which can be defined as a major revolution, is shaping business processes with both its advantages and disadvantages, and made the following assessment:

“Artificial intelligence doesn’t like people. A job that ten people would do is now done by one person. Many tasks such as customer service, content management, data entry, and social media can now be managed by one person. For example, we recently conducted AI-supported phone calls in a project. People realized it was artificial intelligence in only one out of a thousand cases.

The AI bot called, chatted, made appointments for some, and sent calendar invites to both parties. It was artificial intelligence that did all this. Those who requested information received a message via WhatsApp or SMS. In other words, what we would normally do with 50 people, we completed in 2 days with AI, and the results surprised me greatly.”

Stating that artificial intelligence will reduce the need for human labor in the future, Omar Nart said: “Now, we are talking about human-free factories and dark production areas. The concept of Agentic AI is on the rise. In the coming years, we will see unicorn or decacorn companies managed by a single person. Those who use artificial intelligence will gain an advantage over those who don’t.”

“Türkiye has a significant advantage in cross-border e-commerce”

WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart emphasized that cross-border e-commerce offers strategic opportunities for Türkiye and stated the following: “For example, Galina Express is among us. They came from Northern Iraq. The Iraqi market needs Turkish brands, and as Galina, they joined this event to take on this mission. It’s the same in Azerbaijan. On the other hand, there is also a strong expansion in the Balkans, in countries such as Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. Again, 100 tons of shipments are made daily from Türkiye to Riyadh. These are door-to-door delivery operations. When you look at it, 10-15 years ago, this could hardly have been imagined. At this point today, intermediaries, wholesalers, and distributors are significantly being eliminated.”

“E-commerce will become the mainstream of trade”

Omar Nart emphasized that the global e-commerce volume is expected to reach 8-9 trillion dollars within the next five years and stated that 2-2.5 trillion dollars of this will consist of cross-border e-commerce. Omar Nart said: “There are serious risks for brands that do not adapt to this process. Traditional retail is shrinking. E-commerce will become the mainstream of trade.”

 

Nevzat Aydin: In my time, the opportunity was the internet; now it is AI

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 has ended!

The region’s largest e-commerce fair, WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025, was held on May 15-16-17, 2025, at Istanbul Yenikapı Event Area. The fair brought together global e-commerce brands. At the fair, which offered participating brands growth and cooperation opportunities in the field of e-commerce, more than 200 speakers shared their experiences through various panels and presentations on three different stages named “Future Commerce Stage,” “Masterclass Stage,” and “Case Study Stage.” More than 500 retail brands took part in the massive e-commerce event where around 250 booths were set up. Participating companies that opened booths at the event had the opportunity to showcase their products and services. It was reported that more than 15,000 visitors from over 80 countries attended the fair.

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025

Omar Nart: WORLDEF ISTANBUL has become global

WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart expressed their satisfaction with the interest shown in the fair, stating that they brought together many domestic and foreign companies, entrepreneurs, and sectoral visitors focused on e-commerce. Nart said, “WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 has become an important platform where the latest developments in e-commerce were discussed, new collaborations were established, and innovative ideas that will shape the industry were debated. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025, which has become a key meeting point for the development of e-commerce in the region, now hosts many participants and visitors from different countries. When we examine the profiles of visitors and brands, we can say that WORLDEF ISTANBUL has now become completely global.”

Emphasizing that visitors had the opportunity to explore new technologies and business models in the field of e-commerce firsthand, Omar Nart added, “At the same time, the foundations of many new collaborations were laid through B2B (business-to-business) meetings. The feedback we received is the clearest indicator of the fair’s contribution to e-commerce.”

The transformative impact of AI on e-commerce was thoroughly discussed

At WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on e-commerce was thoroughly discussed. In AI-focused panels, it was emphasized that artificial intelligence applications and systems provide speed, efficiency, and profitability to e-commerce brands in many areas, from marketing to customer service, from reporting to campaign planning. Additionally, it was highlighted that businesses strengthen their competitive advantage through AI.

On the other hand, the fair also provided opportunities for B2B cooperation meetings. In two separate B2B areas established at the fairground, many companies connected to e-commerce, such as marketplaces, logistics companies, and digital payment firms, evaluated cooperation opportunities with different companies.

Who attended WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025?

In the panels and presentations held during the WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 event, important figures of the e-commerce ecosystem shared their experiences. The main stage of the fair was hosted by TRT World Reporter Rümeysa Çodar.

Some of the speakers at the fair included:

  • Alexander Popovskiy, General Manager of Yandex Turkey
    • Alexandru Costin Vizireanu, Director of New Sellers at eMAG
    • Arif Topçu, Sector Leader at TikTok Turkey
    • Ayşegül Güvenç, General Manager of Elekse
    • Bojan Vranic, Head of Ananas E-Commerce Seller Center
    • Atilla Alver, General Manager of HepsiJET
    • Cem Oğuz, General Manager of Sürat Kargo
    • Demet Işıl İlhan, Influencer and Author
    • Doğukan Manço, DJ and Producer
    • Dr. Hallow Talabani, Chairperson and CEO of Galina Express
    • Efsun Janset Yılmaz, Deputy General Manager of E-Commerce at Boyner
    • Enes Yılmaz, CEO of Widect
    • Enes Örer, CEO of Oğuz Gıda
    • Eyüp Akbal, Chairman of the Board at Fuzul A.Ş.
    • Florian Jansen, CEO of FJX
    • Gönenç Şener, CEO of ebebek
    • Kubilay Gençkan, Country Manager of WorldFirst
    • Levon Kordonciyan, Fashion Designer
    • Melis Soysal, Senior Partnerships Manager at Shopify
    • Nazım Erdoğan, CMO of sahibinden.com
    • Nevzat Aydın, Founder of Yemeksepeti
    • Nilay Çerçioğlu Büyükkapancı, Category Manager at Ozon Global Turkey
    • Ozan Sihay, Director of Acunmedya Academy and Digital Content Creator
    • Prasanjeet Poddar, Automotive Parts Category Manager at eBay
    • Richard Philippe, Vice President of JUMIA
    • Semih Muşabak, CEO of SİPAY
    • Selo Aksaplı, CEO of DigiFist

 

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 has started!

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 has started!

The global e-commerce fair WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 brought the e-commerce ecosystem together in Istanbul. The fair, which brings together global leaders and innovators, focuses on the AI-driven transformation in e-commerce! WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart said that at WORLDEF ISTANBUL, they designed a unique event concept full of innovations, focusing on expectations and needs. Emphasizing that they have brought the WORLDEF ISTANBUL concept to Dubai and Saudi Arabia, Nart said, “We are building an e-commerce bridge in the Istanbul-Dubai-Riyadh triangle.”

WORLDEF, one of the world’s largest e-commerce fairs, gathered the global e-commerce ecosystem in Istanbul. The fair, held at the Yenikapı Event Area in Istanbul between May 15-17, 2025, began with an opening ceremony.

WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart, who made the opening speech of the fair, stated that they designed a unique event concept for the 12th edition of WORLDEF ISTANBUL this year, focusing on expectations and needs. Nart said:

“With productive processes that will generate commercial outcomes, we continue to add value and contribute to both participant brands and visitors. Unlike previous events, this year we have our Marketplace B2B Zone. In this area, global marketplaces from all around the world will evaluate cooperation opportunities with sellers. This area, which will include many marketplaces such as Temu, eBay, Hepsiburada, and eMAG, will host significant e-commerce connections.”

Emphasizing that they also organized roundtable meetings this year, Nart said:

“In the Roundtable, a special meeting concept, a select group of guests will be able to share their experiences. In addition, our VIP CONNECT EVENT program held yesterday was very productive. This special event, which laid the groundwork for B2B meetings, was the first step for the meetings to be held starting today.”

“WORLDEF DUBAI was recorded as the largest e-commerce event in the Gulf region”

Referring to the WORLDEF DUBAI event held last December, Omar Nart said:

“WORLDEF DUBAI was recorded as the largest e-commerce event in the Gulf region. Organized in cooperation with Dubai CommerCity, the first and only free zone focused on digital commerce in the MENA region, the event was held under the patronage of DIEZ Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and with the participation of UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi. We brought the concept of WORLDEF ISTANBUL exactly to Dubai. More than 10,000 visitors from 82 countries evaluated cooperation opportunities at WORLDEF DUBAI. We will organize WORLDEF DUBAI 2026 between February 11-13, 2026.”

“We are building an e-commerce bridge in the Istanbul-Dubai-Riyadh triangle”

Stating that they will organize WORLDEF RIYADH in October 2025, Nart said:

“With a small-scale event concept for 1,000 people, we are bringing the WORLDEF experience to the e-commerce ecosystem of Saudi Arabia. In this way, we are building an e-commerce bridge in the Istanbul-Dubai-Riyadh triangle.”

Omar Nart also added that they have designed a new event concept called “FINTECHX” that will bring together the fintech ecosystem.

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025

WORLDEF ISTANBUL hosts B2B collaborations focused on e-commerce

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will be an important meeting point for the e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and retail technologies ecosystem. As the technological transformation in e-commerce rapidly continues, brands aiming to stand out in digital commerce will gather at this prestigious fair. Participating brands will lead the transformation in the era of modern retail and discover new opportunities in artificial intelligence.

WORLDEF ISTANBUL offers a “B2B Matching and Networking Application” to lay the groundwork for collaboration among participant companies. Companies registered in the application, which has a unique appointment system, can request meetings with firms from different sectors. The application, which helps companies meet the right people for B2B collaborations, makes it easier to plan meetings, connect with new people, and communicate with participating brands.

Additionally, a “Marketplace B2B Zone” will be established at the fairground. In this area, participating marketplaces will discuss cooperation opportunities with potential e-commerce sellers.

Artificial intelligence is transforming e-commerce!

E-commerce is undergoing a deep transformation with artificial intelligence (AI) integration. AI-powered systems increase customer satisfaction with personalized shopping experiences. AI-based recommendation systems boost sales by offering products suitable for user preferences. Chatbots provide 24/7 customer service. Stock and price algorithms can be dynamically adjusted according to demand. Fraud detection technologies enhance security in e-commerce and reduce cyber risks.

Visual search and voice assistants make online shopping more practical. AI-powered marketing analytics provide more efficient campaign strategies. These innovations make e-commerce smarter, faster, and more user-friendly, strengthening businesses’ competitive advantage. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will offer the opportunity to experience how AI is transforming e-commerce. The event will feature AI-focused brands, expert speakers, and interactive booths.

What does WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 promise?

  • Star speakers: Leading founders, government officials, corporate technology leaders, and investors from around the world will share their e-commerce-focused experiences.
  • New perspectives: On three different stages, brand-new perspectives on the future of e-commerce technologies will be presented. Innovations shaping the world of e-commerce will be shared on the stages.
  • Interactive booth area: Hundreds of brands interacting with e-commerce will showcase their products and services in the fairground.
  • Networking: Thanks to the special B2B matching application offered at the fair, participating companies will be able to hold cooperation meetings easily.

Key Sectors at the Fair:

  • Marketplaces
  • E-commerce service providers
  • Logistics and fulfillment
  • Investors
  • Retail technologies
  • Entrepreneurs

WORLDEF ISTANBUL in Numbers:

  • 80+ Countries
  • 30,000+ Visitors
  • 200+ Speakers
  • 500+ Retail Brands
  • 240+ Booths

 

The countdown has begun for WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 trade show!

E-Commerce Volume in Türkiye Exceeded 3 Trillion Liras

The “Overview of E-Commerce in Türkiye” report, which includes many significant data points regarding Türkiye’s e-commerce ecosystem, was shared with the public. Prepared by the Ministry of Trade, the report reveals the development of e-commerce in the country in 2024. The report was announced during a press conference attended by Türkiye’s Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat and highlights that the e-commerce sector continues to strengthen in parallel with digitalization.

E-Commerce Volume in Türkiye Increased by 61.7%

According to the Overview of E-Commerce in Türkiye Report, as of 2024, the e-commerce volume in Türkiye increased by 61.7% compared to the previous year, reaching 3.162 trillion Turkish Liras ($89.58 billion). The number of e-commerce transactions was recorded at 5 billion 910 million. The retail e-commerce volume in Türkiye increased by 63.7% compared to the previous year, reaching 1.619 trillion liras in 2024.

The number of retail e-commerce transactions increased by 10.1% compared to the previous year, reaching 1 billion 850 million. Between 2019 and 2024, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of total e-commerce volume reached 85.66%, while the CAGR of retail e-commerce volume during the same period reached 90.82%.

E-Commerce Volume Increased by 274% in Dollar Terms Between 2019-2024

The e-commerce volume in Türkiye in 2019 was $23.940 billion. It increased to $77.89 billion in 2023 and reached $89.58 billion in 2024 with a 15% increase compared to the previous year. The growth rate in dollar terms between 2019 and 2024 was recorded at 274%. The share of Türkiye’s domestic e-commerce volume in the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), which was announced as 43 trillion 410 billion 514 million TL by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) in 2024, was 6.5%.

Striking Figures from Türkiye’s E-Commerce Report

Other notable figures from the report, which contains detailed information on Türkiye’s e-commerce ecosystem, are as follows:

  • The share of e-commerce in total trade was 19.1%.
  • The share of cross-border e-commerce (e-export) in total exports increased to 2.9%.
  • The annual volume of cross-border e-commerce reached $8 billion.
  • The number of e-commerce businesses in Türkiye reached 600,800.
  • 58% of e-commerce spending was made by women, and 42% by men.
  • The age group that made the most e-commerce purchases was 30-34.
  • According to the e-commerce adaptation index, the city most adapted to e-commerce was Istanbul.
  • The most online shopping was done during the November campaign period.
  • The most popular shopping day was Saturday.
  • Quick commerce (Q-Commerce) grew by 98.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reaching 249.8 billion TL.
  • In consumer-to-consumer (C2C) sales, the transaction volume reached 9.8 billion TL, with 17.5 million transactions.

 

Provinces with the Highest Number of E-Commerce Businesses

  • Istanbul
  • Ankara
  • Izmir
  • Bursa
  • Antalya

 

Distribution of E-Commerce Businesses by Sector

  • Food (21.63%)
  • Clothing, shoes, and accessories (15.64%)
  • Electronics (12.24%)
  • Home, garden, furniture, and decoration (11.12%)

 

Sectors with the Largest Share in E-Commerce Volume

  • Clothing, shoes, and accessories (301.340 billion TL)
  • Airlines (208.900 billion TL)
  • Travel, transportation, and storage (180.230 billion TL)
  • Electronics (176.920 billion TL)

 

Most Preferred Products in E-Commerce

  • Shoes, t-shirts, dresses, jackets, trousers
  • Vacuum cleaners, laptops, mobile phones
  • Books

 

Most Preferred Payment Methods in E-Commerce

  • Card payments (66%)
  • Wire transfer/EFT (26%)
  • Cash on delivery (3%)
  • Other payment types (5%)

 

In the foreword of the report, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat stated: “Türkiye’s young and digitally competent population offers great potential in the field of e-commerce. Thanks to its developed logistics infrastructure and fast delivery options, businesses can operate more effectively in digital environments and gain a competitive advantage. The digitalization process provides significant opportunities not only for major brands but also for SMEs and entrepreneurs, contributing to economic development.”

CLICK HERE FOR THE REPORT!

 

The countdown has begun for WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 trade show!

The countdown has begun for WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 trade show!

The global e-commerce trade show WORLDEF continues to shape the future of e-commerce and retail technologies. Bringing together global leaders and innovators, the trade show is preparing to host a major gathering in Istanbul. “WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025” will focus on AI-driven transformation in e-commerce!

Referring to the impact of the recent tariffs of the United States (USA) on e-commerce, WORLDEF CEO Omar Nart stated: “Türkiye can be one of the winning countries in this process with its production capacity, workforce, and digital transformation steps. Strategic actions and collaborations are needed to realize this potential. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will host these strategic actions and global collaborations.”

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025

WORLDEF, one of the world’s largest e-commerce fairs, is bringing together the global e-commerce ecosystem in Istanbul. The major e-commerce fair will be held at the Istanbul Yenikapı Event Area on May 15–17, 2025, and is expected to host more than 30,000 attendees from over 80 countries. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will be a key meeting point for the ecosystem of e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and retail technologies.

As the technological transformation in e-commerce rapidly continues, brands aiming to stand out in the digital commerce space will come together at this prestigious fair. Participating brands will lead the transformation in the modern retail era and explore new opportunities in artificial intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence is Transforming E-Commerce!

E-commerce is undergoing a profound transformation through artificial intelligence (AI) integration. AI-powered systems are enhancing customer satisfaction through personalized shopping experiences. AI-based recommendation systems boost sales by suggesting products tailored to user preferences. Chatbots provide 24/7 customer service. Stock and pricing algorithms can be dynamically adjusted based on demand. Fraud detection technologies increase security in e-commerce and reduce cyber risks.

Visual search and voice assistants make online shopping more practical. AI-driven marketing analytics enable more efficient campaign strategies. These innovations are making e-commerce smarter, faster, and more user-friendly, strengthening businesses’ competitive advantages. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will offer an opportunity to experience how AI is transforming e-commerce. The event will feature AI-focused brands, expert speakers, and interactive booths.

WORLDEF ISTANBUL to Host E-Commerce-Oriented B2B Collaborations

WORLDEF ISTANBUL offers a “B2B Matching and Networking Application” to facilitate cooperation among participating companies. Companies registered in the unique appointment system can request meetings with firms from different sectors. The application, which ensures that companies meet the right people for B2B collaborations, makes it easy to schedule meetings, connect with new people, and engage with participating brands. Additionally, a “Marketplace B2B Zone” will be set up at the fairground. In this area, participating marketplaces will discuss collaboration opportunities with potential e-commerce sellers.

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025

Omer Nart: We Expect More Interaction, Participation, and Networking This Year

WORLDEF CEO Omer Nart expressed great excitement for WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025. Emphasizing that last year’s event created a strong synergy in the e-commerce ecosystem, Nart said: “WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will be built upon the synergy created last year. In this year’s e-commerce fair, we expect more interaction, more participation, and more networking.

Participating companies and visitors will witness how AI is transforming e-commerce. We have prepared a comprehensive program on e-commerce and artificial intelligence. From logistics to digital marketing, from service providers to marketplaces, hundreds of professionals from dozens of sectors and everyone whose path intersects with e-commerce will be at the region’s largest e-commerce fair!”

“WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 Will Host Strategic Steps and Global Collaborations”

Highlighting Istanbul’s strategic importance for global e-commerce, Omer Nart said:
“As the host city, Istanbul offers extraordinary opportunities for global e-commerce brands. Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, this metropolis attracts international players. Global e-commerce brands view Türkiye as a supply and production hub. In this regard, WORLDEF ISTANBUL will host very important collaborations.”

Nart also addressed the tariffs implemented by the United States (USA) that negatively affect cross-border e-commerce, pointing out that this situation presents opportunities for producer and supplier countries like Türkiye. He continued:

“This recent situation, especially in categories such as textiles, footwear, accessories, and home decoration, offers opportunities for Turkish manufacturers. With its production power, labor force, and digital transformation efforts, Türkiye can become one of the winning countries in this process. To realize this potential, strategic steps and collaborations are necessary. WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 will host these strategic steps and global collaborations.”

WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025

Inspiring Insights from E-Commerce Professionals

WORLDEF ISTANBUL, one of the most prestigious events in the e-commerce world, brings together leading figures in the industry. Senior executives of the e-commerce ecosystem will deliver inspiring speeches on innovative strategies, digital marketing trends, and the future of commerce. Participants will gain valuable insights into expanding into global markets, AI-powered sales techniques, and improving customer experience. Standing out with its networking opportunities, the event will open the door to significant collaborations for entrepreneurs and brands. This organization, which shapes the future of digital commerce, will be an unmissable meeting point for industry professionals.

What Does WORLDEF ISTANBUL 2025 Promise?

  • Star speakers: Prominent founders, government officials, corporate tech leaders, and investors from around the world will share their e-commerce-focused experiences.
  • New perspectives: Three different stages will present brand-new perspectives on the future of e-commerce technologies. Innovations shaping the e-commerce world will be shared on stage.
  • Interactive booth area: Hundreds of brands engaged in e-commerce will showcase their products and services in the exhibition area.
  • Networking: Thanks to the special B2B matching application offered at the fair, participating companies will easily hold collaboration meetings.

Featured Sectors at the Fair

  • Marketplaces
  • E-commerce service providers
  • Logistics and fulfillment
  • Investors
  • Retail Technologies
  • Entrepreneurs

WORLDEF ISTANBUL in Numbers

  • 80+ Countries
  • 30,000+ Visitors
  • 200+ Speakers
  • 500+ Retail Brands
  • 240+ Booths