Amazon has officially entered the low-cost e-commerce arena with the launch of Amazon Bazaar, a standalone shopping application designed specifically for price-conscious consumers across emerging markets.
The new platform, now available on both Android and iOS devices, features a vast array of products predominantly priced under $10, with numerous items available for as little as $2. This strategic move directly positions Amazon against Chinese competitors Shein and Temu, which have rapidly gained global market share by targeting budget shoppers with ultra-low-priced goods ranging from home essentials to fast fashion.
The initial rollout of Amazon Bazaar spans over a dozen key markets, including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Nigeria, Argentina, and several nations in the Middle East and Latin America. Amazon has confirmed that this is just the first phase, with plans to expand into additional territories in the coming months.
The app operates separately from the main Amazon shopping application, echoing the structure of its domestic service, Amazon Haul, which was launched in the U.S. last year. This dedicated approach allows Amazon to tailor the shopping experience and logistics for a low-price, high-volume business model distinct from its core marketplace.
This aggressive expansion comes at a pivotal time in global e-commerce. The competitive landscape has been reshaped by the rise of Shein and Temu, which have leveraged cross-border shipping efficiencies to offer rock-bottom prices.
However, recent regulatory shifts, including the potential revocation of the “de minimis” tariff exemption in the U.S., present new challenges for these Chinese platforms. Amazon’s established global logistics network and new, focused Bazaar app could give it a significant operational advantage in delivering affordability at scale.
In a parallel development underscoring its continuous focus on customer convenience, Amazon has also enhanced its returns infrastructure.
The e-commerce giant recently began piloting a doorstep pickup service for returns in collaboration with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). This initiative, currently available to select customers, provides a contactless returns option and signals Amazon’s preparation for the upcoming peak season and the inevitable surge in post-holiday returns.
For the USPS, this partnership represents a vital revenue opportunity as it seeks to revitalize its financial standing in the growing reverse logistics market.
