8 Shopping Habits Prevalent in South East Asia

Online shopping has become increasingly popular in South East Asia over the past few years. As access to the internet continues to grow, more and more consumers are turning to online shopping for its convenience and variety. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular online shopping habits in South East Asia.

1. Mobile Shopping: Among consumers in South East Asia, mobile phones are the primary way that people access the internet. This has led to the rise of mobile shopping, where consumers can easily browse and purchase products from their phones. Mobile shopping has become so popular in South East Asia that it is estimated that over 50% of online sales in the region are made through mobile devices.
2. Social Media Shopping: Social media has become a popular platform for online shopping in South East Asia. Consumers use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to discover and purchase products. Many businesses in the region have capitalised on this trend by setting up social media shops where customers can browse and purchase products directly from their social media accounts.
3. Cash on Delivery: In many South East Asian countries, cash on delivery is still the preferred payment method for online shopping. This is due to a lack of trust in online payments and concerns about fraud. Many online retailers in the region have adapted to this by offering cash on delivery as a payment option, which has helped to increase trust and confidence in online shopping.
4. Free Shipping: Free shipping is a major incentive for online shoppers inthe countries in South East Asia. Consumers in the region are more likely to purchase products online if they know that they won't have to pay additional shipping fees. Many online retailers in the region offer free shipping as a way to attract customers and compete with traditional brick and mortar stores.
5. Discounts and Promotions: Discounts and promotions are another popular online shopping habit in South East Asia. Consumers in the region are always on the lookout for deals and discounts, and online retailers have capitalised on this by offering frequent promotions and discounts to attract customers. Many online retailers in the region also offer loyalty programs and rewards points that customers can use to earn discounts on future purchases.
6. Local Products: Many consumers in South East Asia prefer to purchase local products online. This is partly due to a sense of pride in supporting local businesses, but it's also due to the fact that local products are often more affordable and easier to obtain online than in traditional brick and mortar stores.
7. Convenience: Convenience is perhaps the most significant factor driving online shopping in the region. With busy lifestyles and long commutes, many consumers in the region simply don't have the time to go to traditional stores. Online shopping offers the convenience of shopping from home or work, and the ability to have products delivered directly to their doorsteps.
8. Trustworthy Online Retailers: Trust is an essential factor in online shopping in South East Asia. Consumers are more likely to purchase products from online retailers that they trust. This has led to the rise of well-known online retailers like Lazada, Shopee, and Tokopedia, which have established themselves as trusted brands in the region.