Pakistan’s e-commerce sector is rapidly emerging on the global stage, now ranked as the 46th largest market worldwide, according to the International Trade Administration (ITA) and reported by state media on Sunday.
The ITA, a branch of the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides market insights to help businesses select suitable international markets and products. Pakistan’s e-commerce growth has been fueled by a burgeoning middle class, widespread smartphone and internet usage, enhanced e-commerce infrastructure, and robust government support, as noted by APP, the state-run news agency.
In 2023, Pakistan’s e-commerce sector generated $5.2 billion in revenue, surpassing many other developing nations. The sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.92% from 2024 to 2029.
As a mobile-first nation, over 80% of Pakistan’s internet users access the web via smartphones. In 2023, 58% of e-commerce transactions were conducted via mobile devices, a figure expected to increase further. By July 2024, monthly active users of mobile shopping apps in Pakistan exceeded 16.6 million, indicating substantial growth in mobile e-commerce, according to data provider DataSparkle.
The lucrative potential of Pakistan’s e-commerce market has attracted global giants like Alibaba’s AliExpress and Amazon, along with thriving local platforms such as Daraz, DealCart, and Savior. Additionally, international players like SHEIN and Temu have entered Pakistan’s top 15 shopping apps by mid-2024.
This significant growth highlights Pakistan’s rise as a key player in the global e-commerce landscape.
