AI and Social Media Transforming Online Shopping in Asia Pacific
DHL's E-Commerce Trends Report 2025 reveals that 85% of Asia Pacific shoppers expect social media to be their primary shopping platform by 2030, with AI features like virtual try-ons in demand by 81%. The report, based on a survey of 24,000 online shoppers, highlights the region's e-commerce growth driven by AI and social commerce, while sustainability concerns influence 79% of consumer decisions.
The landscape of online shopping in the Asia Pacific region is undergoing significant transformation, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the rise of social media as a shopping platform. According to DHL's E-Commerce Trends Report 2025, which surveyed 24,000 online shoppers, these changes are reshaping consumer behavior and expectations.
Social Media as a Retail Powerhouse
The report highlights a notable shift towards social commerce, with 85% of online shoppers expecting to use social media platforms as their primary shopping destination by 2030. Currently, a significant portion of shoppers in the region, particularly in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, are already purchasing via platforms such as TikTok, with 86% and 81% respectively engaging in this trend.
The influence of viral trends and social buzz is profound, with 87% of shoppers acknowledging its impact on their purchasing decisions. This shift underscores the importance for retailers to integrate social media strategies into their business models, as social platforms are becoming powerful retail channels that blur the lines between traditional e-commerce and physical retail experiences.
The Role of AI in Enhancing Shopping Experiences
AI features such as virtual try-ons and personalized shopping experiences are increasingly in demand, with 81% of Asia Pacific shoppers expressing interest in these capabilities. The integration of AI in retail is facilitating a digital transformation, where AI agents are beginning to act as personal shoppers, offering tailored recommendations and streamlining the purchasing process.
Moreover, 47% of shoppers are using voice commands to make purchases, highlighting the growing role of AI in facilitating convenient and efficient shopping experiences. The introduction of platforms like ChatGPT Shopping by 2025 is set to redefine online shopping habits by enabling users to shop directly within AI interfaces, providing a hassle-free and secure checkout experience.
Sustainability and Consumer Loyalty
Sustainability is emerging as a crucial factor influencing customer loyalty, with 79% of Asia Pacific shoppers considering it important in their purchasing decisions. In India, this figure rises to 92%, indicating a strong preference for environmentally friendly products and practices.
The report also notes that 49% of consumers have abandoned carts due to sustainability concerns. This trend is prompting retailers to adopt circular models and offer options such as pre-owned or refurbished goods. Additionally, there is a growing willingness among consumers to join recycling or buy-back programs, with 72% expressing interest in participating in such initiatives.
Blending Online and Offline Retail Experiences
The convergence of online and offline shopping experiences, often referred to as 'phygital' retail, is becoming increasingly prevalent. Retailers are focusing on enhancing the overall customer experience by blending digital and physical elements. In-store automation and AI-friendly selling strategies are being employed to remove friction from the shopping process and offer seamless experiences.
The future of retail in the Asia Pacific region is marked by a focus on experiential retail, where the integration of technology and sustainability practices will be key to meeting evolving consumer expectations. As AI continues to shape digital advertising strategies and redefine consumer behavior, retailers must adapt to these trends to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.
"The integration of AI and social media is not just transforming how we shop, but also how we interact with brands and products," said a retail industry analyst. "This shift towards a more seamless and personalized shopping experience is setting new benchmarks for the industry."
As the Asia Pacific region leads in e-commerce growth, the adoption of AI-powered personalization and the use of social media as a retail platform are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of online shopping. Retailers must embrace these technologies to deliver the hassle-free and personalized experiences that consumers increasingly expect.