Amazon Expands Small Parcel Delivery Program to Belgium
Amazon has launched its Small Parcel Delivery Partner Program in Belgium, offering sellers operating in the country more cost-effective logistics solutions for European market expansion. The initiative, implemented in partnership with UPS, enables direct shipments from Belgium to Amazon fulfillment centers in Germany, Spain, France, and Italy.
From now through November 3, 2023, eligible sellers can access discounts of up to 80% on UPS shipping rates. The streamlined process allows sellers to estimate costs, complete payments, and track shipments through the "Send to Amazon" workflow in Seller Central.
This development follows the October 18 launch of Amazon's Belgian marketplace, which currently lacks local FBA warehouses. Sellers must instead ship inventory to German or French fulfillment centers, making the new delivery program particularly valuable for reducing logistics expenses.
Shopee Updates Return and Refund Policies
Shopee has implemented revised return and refund policies across select markets. The platform's updated functionality now allows Chinese sellers to manage post-order completion return/refund requests through Seller Center.
Policy changes took effect November 1 for Singapore and November 8 for the Philippines, specifically affecting mall sellers on the latter marketplace. These adjustments reflect Shopee's ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection measures and build platform trustworthiness.
TikTok Appoints NBA Veteran as Global Marketing Chief
The short-form video platform has named Kate Jhaveri, former NBA Chief Marketing Officer, to lead its worldwide marketing operations. Jhaveri will oversee consumer and brand marketing initiatives, reporting directly to Chief Operating Officer Vanessa Pappas.
Her responsibilities will include creator marketing programs and close collaboration with Global Business Marketing Head Sofia Hernandez. The high-profile appointment signals TikTok's continued investment in global expansion and brand development.
DHgate Adjusts Logistics Channels
The cross-border marketplace announced temporary suspension of select shipping routes effective November 7. While existing orders will be processed, new shipments through affected channels cannot be created. Sellers are advised to monitor logistics updates and contact designated warehouse representatives for clarification.
Eurozone Economic Slowdown Raises Concerns
European Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni warned of impending economic contraction in the eurozone during winter months, citing energy crises and persistent inflation. This forecast presents significant challenges for cross-border merchants, as weakened consumer purchasing power may depress demand across key European markets.
China's Cross-Border Trade Events Showcase Growth
The fifth China International Import Expo concluded with over $4 billion in tentative deals, demonstrating strong international interest in Chinese markets. Concurrently, the China (Xiamen) International Cross-Border E-Commerce Exhibition prepares to open November 10-12, featuring 60,000 square meters of exhibition space across three specialized zones.
Air Cargo Rankings Shift as FedEx Adjusts Policies
Hong Kong International Airport regained its position as the world's top air cargo hub in the latest ACI rankings, displacing Memphis International Airport. Chinese airports in Guangzhou and Shenzhen secured positions in the top 20.
Separately, FedEx announced suspension of its money-back guarantee for most domestic and international express shipments during the peak season (December 13-January 2), potentially impacting delivery reliability for e-commerce sellers.