Rise of Temu in South Africa

Chinese e-commerce marketplace Temu has swiftly expanded its presence in South Africa, challenging entrenched competitors with its budget-friendly offerings and complimentary shipping.

It is currently the most downloaded app in South Africa and has dominated Google searches and social media with ads. Takealot CEO says online retailers like Temu are increasing inflationary pressure.

This explainer offers insight into its local dominance.

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Additional readings:
— Don’t be fooled by shopping platform Temu’s childlike interface [https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/opinionista/2024-04-09-dont-be-fooled-by-shopping-platform-temus-childlike-interface/]
— Temu is exploding in South Africa [https://dailyinvestor.com/technology/47576/temu-is-exploding-in-south-africa/]
— The dark side of Temu and Shein [https://mybroadband.co.za/news/it-services/530925-the-dark-side-of-temu-and-shein.html]
— Chinese retailer Temu's entry causes digital marketing costs to soar, says Takealot [https://www.news24.com/fin24/companies/chinese-retailer-temus-entry-causes-digital-marketing-costs-to-soar-says-takealot-20240419]
— Chinese Temu taking on Bash, Shein and Takealot in South Africa [https://www.bricscompetition.org/news/chinese-temu-taking-on-bash-shein-and-takealot-in-south-africa]