{
  "id": 5568758,
  "title": "How can African retailers compete with Shein and Temu?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/how-can-african-retailers-compete-with-shein-and-temu",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-04T13:49:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "DW English (Top Stories)",
    "slug": "dw-english-top-stories",
    "url": "https://www.dw.com/en/how-can-african-retailers-compete-with-shein-and-temu/a-78988195?maca=en-rss-en-top-1022-xml-mrss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Chinese e-commerce giants Shein and Temu have made a significant impact on the African retail market. By offering low prices, a vast selection, and aggressive social media marketing, these companies have quickly gained a substantial market share. In South Africa alone, the two platforms generated around 7.3 billion rand ($405 million) in 2024, accounting for 3.6% of the total market for clothing, textiles, footwear, and leather, and nearly 37% of online sales in the sector.\n\nHowever, this surge in online shopping has raised concerns about the impact on local retailers, manufacturers, and jobs. According to a study commissioned by the Localization Support Fund, 2,818 manufacturing jobs and 5,282 retail jobs were lost during this period, amounting to a combined impact of about 8,100 jobs. By 2030, the study predicts that more than 34,000 additional retail and manufacturing jobs could be at risk.\n\nIn response, some local industry groups are calling for stricter controls. Simon Eppel, a research director with the South African Clothing and Textile Workers Union, proposes banning these apps in South Africa to counter the price pressure. The union argues that Shein and Temu have pressured local manufacturers, leading to a significant loss of sales. Industry experts also warn that online giants can operate at a speed that is difficult for small African retailers to match, as they can quickly determine which products are in demand and respond with new offers and discounts.\n\nThe issue extends beyond fashion, as governments are concerned about the conditions under which local businesses can compete with global platforms. The matter involves taxes and fair competition. South Africa has tightened rules governing small online imports to prevent international platforms from enjoying a tax advantage over local retailers. However, the conflict is not only about China versus Africa but also about whether local businesses can compete under comparable conditions.",
  "summary": "Shein and Temu are expanding across Africa with low prices and vast product ranges. Businesses and unions warn the growth could come at a cost for local jobs.",
  "key_points": [
    "Shein and Temu dominate African retail market with low prices and aggressive marketing.",
    "2,818 manufacturing and 5,282 retail jobs lost in South Africa, totaling 8,100 jobs.",
    "Industry groups propose banning Shein and Temu to protect local jobs and businesses."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "DW News",
        "title": "How can African retailers compete with Shein and Temu?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/how-can-african-retailers-compete-with-shein-and-temu-5574811",
        "published": "2026-09-04T13:49:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}