Chinese e‑commerce platforms used by over half of Eurozone shoppers

An analysis by the European Central Bank shows that more than 50 % of consumers in the euro area regularly purchase goods through Chinese online platforms such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress. Low prices and a wide product range are the main drivers. The European Commission estimates that around 90 % of low‑value parcels entering the EU in 2024 originated from China, with shipments climbing from 1.9 billion in 2023 to 4.17 billion in 2024.

Usage varies across countries: Greece, Portugal and Spain record the highest adoption, with over 70 % of respondents indicating they shop on these platforms, while Germany and France have the lowest rates, below 50 %. Most purchases are small‑value – roughly two‑thirds are €25 or less and 90 % are under €50. About one‑fifth of Eurozone consumers buy from Chinese platforms at least once a month. The ECB notes that geopolitical tensions between China and the West have a limited effect on consumer choices, with only one in five shoppers saying political concerns deter them.