Ecommerce Business in Bangladesh: Growth, Challenges, and Future Opportunities
The ecommerce business in Bangladesh has become one of the fastest-growing industries in the country over the last decade. With rapid digital transformation, increasing internet penetration, and the rise of smartphone users, online shopping has transformed the traditional business landscape. Today, millions of Bangladeshis prefer ordering products online—from daily essentials to electronics, clothing, and even groceries. This article explores the growth, challenges, and bright future of ecommerce business in Bangladesh.
The Evolution of Ecommerce in Bangladesh
The journey of ecommerce in Bangladesh began in the early 2010s when online marketplaces like Bikroy.com, AjkerDeal, and Rokomari started offering online services. However, the real transformation started around 2015–2017, when digital payment systems and logistics networks became more reliable.
With platforms like Daraz, Evaly (initially), and Pickaboo, online shopping gained massive popularity among urban youth. Government support through the “Digital Bangladesh” initiative also played a major role in encouraging small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to move online. As a result, thousands of local entrepreneurs started ecommerce stores through Facebook pages, Shopify, and local e-commerce platforms.
Market Growth and Statistics
According to industry reports, the ecommerce market in Bangladesh has grown exponentially over the last few years. In 2023, the market size was estimated at over $5 billion, with projections suggesting it could reach $10 billion by 2027 if current growth continues.
Some key factors driving this growth include:
- Over 125 million mobile internet users
- Growing middle-class population with disposable income
- Improved logistics and delivery networks
- Popularity of digital payment systems like bKash, Nagad, and Rocket
- Rise of social media marketing, especially on Facebook and Instagram
Popular Ecommerce Platforms in Bangladesh
Several online marketplaces dominate the Bangladeshi ecommerce sector, offering products across different categories:
- Daraz Bangladesh – The largest ecommerce platform in the country, offering millions of products from local and international sellers.
- Rokomari.com – Specialized in books, stationery, and educational materials.
- Pickaboo.com – Focused on electronics, smartphones, and gadgets.
- AjkerDeal.com – A popular local marketplace with a wide range of affordable products.
- Chaldal.com – The leading online grocery delivery platform in Bangladesh.
In addition, Facebook-based online stores have become a unique feature of the Bangladeshi ecommerce scene. Thousands of small businesses sell products directly through Facebook pages, Messenger, and WhatsApp.
How Ecommerce is Changing Consumer Behavior
The ecommerce business in Bangladesh has significantly changed how consumers shop. Earlier, shopping meant going to crowded markets and spending hours finding the right product. Now, customers can browse hundreds of products, compare prices, read reviews, and place orders—all within minutes.
Another major shift is the rise of cashless transactions. Although “cash on delivery” is still common, digital payments through bKash and other apps are growing steadily. Consumers are also becoming more confident in ordering high-value products online due to better return policies and customer service.
Role of Logistics and Delivery Services
The success of ecommerce in Bangladesh heavily depends on reliable delivery services. In recent years, several courier companies have emerged to support this sector, including Pathao Courier, Paperfly, Steadfast Courier, RedX, and eCourier.
These logistics providers ensure fast and secure delivery across all 64 districts of Bangladesh. The development of rural delivery services has also opened up new markets beyond Dhaka and Chittagong, helping small entrepreneurs reach nationwide customers.
Challenges Facing Ecommerce Business in Bangladesh
Despite the impressive growth, the ecommerce industry in Bangladesh still faces some major challenges:
- Lack of Trust: Many customers still hesitate to make online purchases due to past experiences with fake products or delayed deliveries.
- Weak Consumer Protection: There are limited legal frameworks to protect buyers and sellers in case of disputes.
- Logistics Delays: Delivery to remote areas can take several days due to poor infrastructure.
- Payment Issues: Although digital payments are increasing, a large number of people still prefer cash on delivery.
- Competition and Price Wars: Many small ecommerce businesses struggle to compete with big players like Daraz due to pricing and marketing costs.
Government Initiatives and Policy Support
The Government of Bangladesh has been actively promoting digital transformation under the “Digital Bangladesh Vision 2021” and Smart Bangladesh 2041 initiatives. Several programs are helping boost ecommerce growth, including:
- Development of a National Digital Commerce Policy
- Support for women entrepreneurs in ecommerce through training and grants
- Promotion of online business registration and taxation reforms
- Encouragement of cross-border ecommerce for export-oriented businesses
These initiatives are helping build trust, create jobs, and encourage more young entrepreneurs to launch online ventures.
The Future of Ecommerce Business in Bangladesh
The future of the ecommerce business in Bangladesh looks bright. With a young, tech-savvy population and increasing smartphone access, online shopping will continue to grow rapidly. Experts predict that by 2030, ecommerce will become a major driver of the national economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment.
Emerging trends that will shape the future include:
- AI-powered personalization to enhance customer experience
- Faster delivery through drone and automated logistics
- Expansion of rural ecommerce markets
- Cross-border trade with South Asia and Southeast Asia
- Green ecommerce practices focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging
How to Start an Ecommerce Business in Bangladesh
If you are planning to start your own ecommerce business in Bangladesh, here are the basic steps:
- Choose your niche (fashion, electronics, beauty products, groceries, etc.)
- Register your business and get a trade license
- Create a website or Facebook shop with product listings
- Set up payment gateways like bKash, Nagad, or SSLCommerz
- Partner with delivery companies for nationwide shipping
- Promote your business using social media marketing, SEO, and influencer collaborations
With proper planning and digital marketing, small entrepreneurs can build profitable online stores even with limited investment.
Conclusion
The ecommerce business in Bangladesh is more than just a trend—it’s a revolution transforming the country’s economy. From big platforms like Daraz to small Facebook stores, online commerce is empowering entrepreneurs, creating jobs, and making shopping easier for millions. Although challenges remain, the rapid pace of digitalization, supportive government policies, and increasing customer trust signal a bright future for this industry.
Bangladesh is on its way to becoming a digital commerce hub in South Asia, where innovation and entrepreneurship will continue to drive growth for years to come.
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