Vietnam, November 22, 2024 - Shopee has launched a new initiative, Shopee Enables SMEs, aimed at training 100,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Vietnam. In collaboration with the Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM), this program is designed to equip local businesses with the essential skills and tools needed to thrive in the digital age.
With a focus on enhancing ecommerce capabilities, Shopee Enables SMEs will provide targeted training in ecommerce tools and digital marketing applications, empowering SMEs to harness technology and improve their operations. This initiative is set to help transform the Vietnamese business landscape, creating new opportunities for growth and economic development.
A Strong Commitment to Vietnam’s Digital Future
At the launch, Jason Bay, Sea Country Head, highlighted Shopee’s long-term commitment to fostering the growth of the ecommerce ecosystem and supporting local SMEs. He noted, “this initiative is just one of many ways we’re working to strengthen Vietnam’s digital economy by empowering its SMEs. By helping these businesses succeed, we’re contributing to the wider growth of the country’s economy.”
Shopee's past initiatives have already delivered notable results. Last year, the company engaged nearly 10,000 sellers through a series of national and provincial workshops. In addition, Shopee expanded its Local Seller Support Program, which now targets 1,000 local producers, enhancing their logistics, distribution, and product visibility in both domestic and international markets. Now, over 90% of the products available on Shopee are sourced from local Vietnamese businesses, underscoring the platform's commitment to supporting the local economy.
Shopee’s initiative aligns with the Vietnamese government’s digital transformation agenda, including Directive 29, which focuses on advancing the country’s digital economy both nationally and internationally. By collaborating with the government, Shopee aims to bridge the digital divide and enable businesses of all sizes to thrive in the global marketplace.
Strengthening Vietnam-Singapore Collaboration
The Shopee Enables SMEs program also represents an exciting new chapter in the Vietnam-Singapore partnership. Singapore Ambassador to Vietnam, Jaya Ratnam, praised the initiative, highlighting its importance in fostering collaboration between the two countries in the digital economy. “Shopee is not just providing businesses with digital tools, it’s giving them the knowledge and support they need to compete globally. This program is a powerful example of how business can be a force for good, empowering Vietnamese SMEs and driving economic growth,” said Ambassador Ratnam.
Ambassador Ratnam also emphasized Vietnam’s growing importance as one of Singapore’s key partners, particularly as both countries focus on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability to drive future economic growth.
Unlocking the Potential of Vietnam’s SMEs
Bui Trung Kien, Vice President of VECOM, recognized the rapid growth of Vietnam’s ecommerce sector but highlighted that many SMEs still struggle to fully leverage its potential. "This initiative will help bridge the gap between major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and SMEs across the country," Kien said.
Shopee Enables SMEs aims to change that by bringing ecommerce training to all 63 provinces and cities across Vietnam. The program’s first training course took place in Hanoi, with over 200 businesses and 100 students taking part. Participants received hands-on training in areas like live streaming, digital marketing, sales optimization, and expanding into export markets.
Empowering SMEs for a Brighter Future
Shopee Enables SMEs is not just a one-off initiative; it is a key part of Shopee's long-term strategy to foster a more inclusive and resilient digital economy in Vietnam. The training program will equip SMEs with valuable insights into consumer trends, effective online sales strategies, and essential ecommerce tools, empowering them to expand their reach both domestically and internationally.
“Shopee is committed to leveraging technology to serve the underserved and improve lives. Our free training sessions are designed to ensure that no business is left behind as we move toward a more connected digital future,” said Bay.
As Vietnam’s ecommerce sector continues to grow, Shopee Enables SMEs is poised to empower businesses to compete alongside larger corporations, driving growth, creating jobs, and enhancing livelihoods nationwide.
The program will be rolled out across all 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam, benefiting thousands of SMEs and playing a vital role in the country’s digital economy transformation.
