Cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce: opportunities and challenges under globalization

With the deepening of global economic integration and the rapid development of Internet technology, cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce has become an emerging force in international trade. This model enables consumers to conveniently purchase goods from all over the world, while also bringing global business opportunities to companies. However, cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce also faces a series of challenges.

Introduction to the comprehensive self-operated cross-border B2C platform

So far, in the field of cross-border e-commerce, there are not many comprehensive self-operated platforms that adopt the B2C model. Except for Amazon and Yihaodian, I am afraid that other platforms cannot be classified in this category. In August 2014, Amazon announced that it would set up an international trade headquarters in the Shanghai Free Trade Zone to fully carry out cross-border e-commerce. In the same month, Yihaodian also announced that it would operate cross-border e-commerce in the region. Bonded import and international express delivery will be its dominant logistics forms. Although the bonded import model is favored by many industry insiders, Yihaodian and Amazon did not immediately adopt this operating model.

Global layout

The global shopping model of cross-border import e-commerce platforms has the characteristics of global layout. These platforms can introduce goods from all over the world to the Chinese market and provide a series of sales services, such as payment and settlement, logistics and distribution, after-sales services, etc. This allows domestic consumers to conveniently purchase goods from all over the world, and also provides convenience for foreign sellers to expand into the Chinese market.

Overseas direct purchase

The global shopping model of cross-border import e-commerce platforms also has the characteristics of overseas direct purchases. This means that consumers can purchase goods directly from foreign sellers through cross-border import e-commerce platforms without going through third-party purchasing agents or other intermediary channels. This direct procurement method can improve procurement efficiency and reduce procurement costs, while also allowing consumers to purchase higher quality and unique products.

Personalized consumption experience

The global shopping model of cross-border import e-commerce platforms can provide personalized consumption experience. These platforms can provide consumers with personalized product recommendations, marketing promotion and other services based on their purchasing behavior and preferences. At the same time, these platforms can also provide consumers with diversified payment methods, fast logistics and distribution services to meet consumers’ individual needs.

Quality Assurance

The global shopping model of cross-border import e-commerce platforms can also provide quality assurance. These platforms will conduct strict quality testing and supervision of imported goods to ensure that they comply with relevant national quality and safety standards. At the same time, these platforms will also provide consumers with after-sales services, such as returns and exchanges, complaint handling, etc., to ensure the rights and interests of consumers.

Market competitiveness

The global shopping model of cross-border import e-commerce platforms is also market competitive. These platforms can help domestic consumers purchase unique, high-quality imported goods to meet consumer demand. At the same time, these platforms also provide foreign sellers with a platform to expand into the Chinese market, helping them expand sales channels and increase brand awareness.

Opportunities for cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce

Cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce has opened the door to the global market for enterprises. Consumers can easily purchase goods from all over the world, and companies can also expand overseas markets through the Internet and achieve broader development space. In addition, cross-border imported self-operated B2C e-commerce can provide consumers with more diversified product choices. Consumers can enjoy specialty products from different countries and regions to meet personalized needs. Cross-border imported self-operated B2C e-commerce companies usually focus on product quality and service experience, providing consumers with high-quality goods and reliable after-sales services. This earns the business trust and loyalty from consumers.

Challenges faced

Policy Challenges

Relevant policies will bring huge challenges to platform operations, and fixed asset investment may face a serious crisis. Customs and tax policies pose challenges to cross-border import self-operated B2C e-commerce. Issues including tariffs, import restrictions, customs clearance procedures, etc. need to be actively addressed and resolved by enterprises.

Logistics and operating costs

Ensuring the transportation of goods is a major advantage in the logistics process. However, logistics costs and operating costs can be higher, especially in cross-border transportation and warehousing. Businesses need to find the right partners and logistics solutions to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Language and cultural differences

Enterprises need to adapt to the needs of different markets and conduct market research and customized operations to meet consumer expectations and preferences.

Intellectual property protection

Intellectual property protection is an important issue. Enterprises need to strengthen the protection of product intellectual property rights to prevent infringement and counterfeiting, and at the same time comply with the intellectual property laws and regulations of various countries.

How to deal with it

Strengthen compliance management

Enterprises should understand and abide by the customs, tax and trade policies of different countries and regions, and establish a compliance management system.

Expand partner network

Find reliable logistics partners and suppliers, establish an efficient supply chain system, optimize logistics operations, reduce costs and shorten delivery times.

Technology and Innovation

Improving the company’s operational efficiency and customer experience through investments in technology and innovation. For example, big data analysis, artificial intelligence and blockchain technology are used to improve supply chain visualization and product traceability capabilities.

Protect intellectual property

Strengthen awareness of intellectual property protection, register trademarks and patents, strengthen product quality control and anti-counterfeiting measures, and increase consumer trust in corporate brands.