Singapore E-commerce Programs break barriers to shop online

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Enterprise Singapore (ESG) has launched the Singapore E-Commerce Programme to support SME retailers with little or no e-commerce experience to commence online trading.
The group’s program is set up to cover 90 percent of costs up to SGD9000 (US$6300) for retailers to use e-commerce platforms for domestic and/or overseas markets, as well as providing additional manpower if needed.
The Singapore E-Commerce Programme has been built in collaboration with e-commerce platforms Amazon, Lazada Singapore, Qoo10 and Shopee, which will provide assistance in curating and listing products for up to six months.
The move aims to assist retailers in upgrading and diversifying their business model beyond traditional brick-and-mortar, of particular relevance during the coronavirus pandemic.
“It is more crucial now for retailers to diversify revenue streams by using e-commerce channels,” said ESG deputy CEO Ted Tan. “The Singapore E-Commerce Programme primarily helps retailers with little e-commerce knowledge and capabilities to start using online channels. Our partnership with the established e-commerce platforms both in Singapore and overseas ensures a good-sized market for these retailers to tap on. We want to empower all retailers to develop long-term and sustainable e-commerce strategies that will ensure business resilience beyond Covid-19.”
Eligible retailers are invited to sign up for the package directly with the respective e-commerce platforms by September 30.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific e-commerce platforms are participating in the Singapore E-Commerce Programme?
Which specific e-commerce platforms are participating in the Singapore E-Commerce Programme?
The programme has been built in collaboration with Amazon, Lazada Singapore, Qoo10 and Shopee. These platforms will assist retailers with curating and listing products for up to six months.
Q.What is the primary financial support offered to retailers through this programme?
What is the primary financial support offered to retailers through this programme?
The programme covers 90 percent of costs for retailers to use e-commerce platforms, up to a maximum of SGD9000 (US$6300). It also provides additional manpower if required.
Q.Who is the Singapore E-Commerce Programme primarily designed to assist?
Who is the Singapore E-Commerce Programme primarily designed to assist?
The programme primarily helps SME retailers who have little or no prior e-commerce experience or knowledge. The goal is to support them in starting online trading.
Q.When is the deadline for eligible retailers to sign up for the support package?
When is the deadline for eligible retailers to sign up for the support package?
Eligible retailers are invited to sign up for the package directly with the respective e-commerce platforms by September 30. This date is the cut-off for applications.
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