As the year-end approaches, cross-border e-commerce sellers are preparing for the upcoming peak sales season. However, opportunities come with challenges, as policy changes, platform adjustments, and market competition continue to impact operations. This report examines the latest developments on Amazon, Alibaba, and eBay, along with updates on international trade policies.
Amazon Implements New Sales Restrictions for California
Starting February 6, 2023, Amazon will enforce new sales restrictions on certain appliance products shipped to California. These restrictions stem from requirements by the California Energy Commission (CEC), ensuring regulated appliances meet minimum energy efficiency standards and are properly registered in the Modernized Appliance Efficiency Database System (MAEDbS).
Products in the following categories will be blocked from sale to California if not registered in MAEDbS:
- Light bulbs
- Pool products and portable spa products
- Portable air conditioners
- Computers and monitors
Recommended Seller Actions:
- Verify product compliance with California energy efficiency standards
- Complete MAEDbS registration with accurate brand, manufacturer, and model information
- Monitor Amazon announcements for policy updates
- Complete preparations before the February deadline
Alibaba Launches Miravia Platform in Spain
Alibaba officially launched its new cross-border e-commerce platform, Miravia, in Spain on November 30. Targeting the mid-to-high-end market, Miravia operates independently from AliExpress and Lazada, featuring primarily Spanish and European brands.
Strategic Implications:
- Expands Alibaba's presence in the European market
- Creates differentiation from existing platforms through premium positioning
- Employs localized operations tailored to Spanish consumer preferences
eBay Adjusts SpeedPAK Shipping Rates
eBay announced adjustments to SpeedPAK shipping rates effective December 1, 2022. Orange Connex reduced rates for shipments from mainland China and Hong Kong to the US and Canada, while increasing rates to Western Australia due to additional surcharges imposed by Australia Post following natural disasters.
Recommended Seller Actions:
- Monitor updated shipping rates for affected routes
- Optimize logistics solutions based on new pricing
- Adjust pricing strategies to account for shipping cost changes
Domestic Updates: Pudong Announces 10 Foreign Trade Measures
Pudong New District unveiled 10 key initiatives on November 30 to enhance institutional openness, improve business environments, and upgrade international circulation quality. The measures cover trade facilitation, financial support, and talent recruitment, aiming to boost foreign trade development.
Meanwhile, Kunshan reported record-high foreign trade volume, with total import-export value reaching 568 billion yuan ($81 billion) in the first 10 months of 2022, maintaining its position as China's top county-level city for 18 consecutive years.
Global Developments
Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry reported a second consecutive monthly decline in industrial production for October, reflecting weakening overseas demand.
Indonesia's central bank projected e-commerce growth to reach $36.4 billion in 2023, with consumer spending expected to remain strong despite economic challenges.
Logistics Updates
ZTO Vietnam launched two new cross-border routes connecting China and Vietnam, offering 3-5 day delivery with full tracking visibility.
Saudi Arabia announced plans to transform Riyadh Airport into a six-runway facility and logistics hub, targeting 3.5 million tons of annual cargo capacity by 2050 as part of its economic diversification strategy.