Despite reaching a $7.7 billion valuation in 2024, Pakistan’s e-commerce sector faces challenges, including unreliable internet, digital payment issues, and consumer skepticism. SMEs struggle to access global markets, and slow progress on government initiatives highlights the need for improvements in internet access and logistics infrastructure.
Iraq is working to bring global e-commerce companies like Amazon and SHEIN to the country by establishing the necessary infrastructure. The Ministry of Communications is also focusing on launching a national e-commerce platform and automating the postal system as part of a broader digital transformation effort.
Tazah Technologies, founded by former Careem executives, has evolved from an agritech startup to a global e-commerce player with the launch of Zambeel. Zambeel offers dropshipping, warehousing, and fulfillment services, helping entrepreneurs in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The platform also provides an E-Commerce Masterclass for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Daraz Bangladesh has launched “Choice,” a new shopping channel offering over 4,000 top-rated products, exclusive deals, and fast deliveries. With a focus on convenience, trusted brands, and customer-centric features like Free Delivery and hassle-free returns, Choice aims to transform online shopping in Bangladesh, especially during Ramadan and beyond.
Visa’s report highlights Bangladesh’s growing digital payment adoption, with 14% increased spending and 17% more transactions in 2024. Dhaka leads this growth, while other cities like Gazipur and Rajshahi also show progress. Online and contactless payments drive the shift, with strong growth in both domestic and international transactions.
Bangladesh is rapidly adopting digital payments, with significant growth in both domestic and cross-border transactions, according to Visa. The shift towards online and contactless payments has seen a 14% increase in spending and a 17% rise in transactions, with Dhaka remaining the central hub for digital transactions.
Oman has launched a Postal Sector Policy and Executive Programme (2025-2029) to modernize and regulate the expanding postal sector, improve service quality, and support e-commerce and logistics. The programme aligns with national goals and includes initiatives like postal service liberalization, a national addressing system, and e-commerce delivery guidelines.
CMI has partnered with Global Blue to launch a multi-currency payment service for Moroccan e-commerce websites. This new service, incorporating Dynamic Currency Conversion, allows international customers to pay in their preferred currencies, enhancing the shopping experience and increasing sales for Moroccan merchants.
The 9th edition of Women Tech Quest (WTQ) held in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore inspired women to lead in Pakistan’s IT and e-commerce sectors. The event featured competitions, keynote speeches, and discussions on leadership, digital transformation, and financial empowerment. Winners were recognized in testing, design, and coding categories.
MENA’s e-commerce market has surged by over 30% in 2024, driven by digital initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy. The growth is creating both opportunities and challenges for logistics providers, who must innovate with automation, regional fulfilment centres, and real-time tracking solutions.
