2025.2.17 GoodsFox Daily E-commerce News:
- NRS Leads Global Independent Store Advertising Rankings
- ByteDance Returns to App Stores, TikTok and CapCut Top Download Charts
- Maritime Silk Road Index: Continued Weak Shipping Demand, Rates Drop
- European Parliament Approves VAT Compliance for Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms
- Malaysia's Lunar New Year Shopping Trend Shifts Toward E-Commerce
1. NRS Leads Global Independent Store Advertising Rankings
According to GoodsFox data, National Roper's Supply (NRS) ranked first in global independent store advertising over the last 7 days. NRS, which specializes in rodeo and equestrian products, had over 5,000 ad creatives deployed, showing its massive ad investment and market expansion capabilities. Founded in 1994, NRS has built a strong brand by blending traditional Western culture with modern retail strategies, leading to a loyal customer base in the U.S., U.K., and Mexico. Their catalog mailing service was a key marketing asset, and they continue to release two product catalogs annually, solidifying their market position.
Source: GoodsFox
2. ByteDance Returns to App Stores, TikTok and CapCut Top Download Charts
After being removed for nearly a month, ByteDance's TikTok and CapCut apps are back in the Apple and Google app stores. While they are reinstated, the TikTok ban in the U.S. has only been paused, lasting until the first week of April 2025. If no agreement is reached by then, the ban may be reinstated. This pause means U.S. users might lose access to TikTok, CapCut, and other ByteDance apps unless a new deal is struck.
3. Maritime Silk Road Index: Continued Weak Shipping Demand, Rates Drop
Last week, Ningbo Shipping Exchange reported a drop of 11.7% in the Ningbo Export Container Freight Index (NCFI), with 20 out of 21 shipping routes seeing a decline in freight rates. The European routes saw a sharp drop of 15.3%, and U.S. East Coast rates fell by 19.7%. These ongoing declines reflect a continued lack of demand in the global shipping market, affecting international e-commerce.
4. European Parliament Approves VAT Compliance for Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms
The European Parliament has approved a revision of VAT rules, requiring e-commerce platforms to ensure tax compliance for their sellers. Platforms will be responsible for VAT payments if sellers fail to meet obligations, which aims to reduce tax evasion and unfair competition. This reform will apply starting in 2030, with exemptions for small businesses in certain EU countries.
5. Malaysia's Lunar New Year Shopping Trend Shifts Toward E-Commerce
E-commerce platforms in Malaysia have reported a sharp increase in online shopping during the Lunar New Year season. Consumers are turning to online platforms for convenience, competitive prices, and a wider selection of products. Demand for traditional Lunar New Year apparel, decorations, and festive snacks has surged on platforms like Taobao, with some products seeing search volume increases of over 3,000%.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goodsfox-helper-365450282/
