Cainiao: reducing the barrier to international trade
Cainiao Network, the logistics arm of Alibaba Group, today announced the launch of a digital end-to-end e-commerce logistics services for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
This includes services such as pickup, warehousing, supply chain, customs clearance, and last mile delivery in 120 countries worldwide, as well as real-time parcel tracking, one-stop after-sales service, delivery guarantees and warranty.
The pilot launch of this integrated solution is done in partnership with ShopLazza, a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that specializes in various aspects of direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce, such as order and consumer loyalty management, operational data analysis reports, and more. For merchants who want to expand their business overseas, the solution provides them with customizable, affordable, and efficient logistics services. This integration will allow SMEs to leverage enterprise-level logistics system on ShopLazza, while providing access to Cainiao’s global logistics network, thereby increasing their overall visibility, productivity, and efficiency.
Globally, SMEs represent around 90 percent of all firms and contribute to up to 70 percent of the global GDP. As they look to scale their online presence, they often encounter limitations with cross-border delivery services, resulting in cost-inefficient operations. A stable and accessible logistics service will therefore play a pivotal role in opening access to overseas markets to instill greater business resilience amid global uncertainties.
Additionally, with access to enterprise-level logistics systems, merchants can reassure their customers with performance guarantees and hassle-free shipping services. This increases their competitiveness and alleviates a pain point commonly faced by SMEs, which is securing an end-to-end cross-border eCommerce logistics service that is efficient, affordable, and sustainable for their business. To further improve merchants’ competitiveness, Cainiao will introduce logistics promotions and subsidies on the platform from time to time.
“The rapid e-commerce growth in Asia Pacific sub-regions over the past two years, coupled with increasing demand for a smooth fulfilment workflow, can be tricky for SMEs to navigate. At Cainiao, we want to extend our resources and expertise to help level the playing field and reduce the barrier to international trade. With logistics as the backbone of global trade, we envision the launch of our smart logistics solution for eCommerce merchants and SMEs, starting with the partnership with ShopLazza, to be a step forward in our mission of making it easy to do business anywhere – empowering businesses to transform the way they market, sell and operate, and boost their efficiencies,” said Dr. Ding Hongwei, General Manager, Cainiao Technology.
“SMEs can leverage both Cainiao and ShopLazza’s competitive advantages in technology to shape their growth strategies and achieve better overall customer satisfaction. With a more comprehensive support, they are better primed to realize their global business potential,” added Dr. Ding.
