E-commerce, short for electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet. This practice encompasses a wide range of online economic activities, including:
- Online Retailing: Selling products directly to consumers through e-commerce websites (e.g., Amazon, eBay).
- Marketplaces: Platforms where multiple vendors can sell their products (e.g., Etsy, Alibaba).
- Online Services: Providing services online, such as streaming (Netflix), subscription-based models (Spotify), and digital product sales (software, e-books).
- B2B Transactions: Businesses buying and selling from each other online, often in bulk (e.g., wholesale suppliers).
- Mobile Commerce (m-commerce): Transactions completed via mobile devices, including shopping through apps.
- Crowdfunding: Raising money through contributions from a large number of people, often facilitated by platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe.
E-commerce transactions can involve direct sales, subscription services, auctions, or peer-to-peer transactions, and can take place through various channels, including websites, mobile applications, and social media platforms. The rise of e-commerce has transformed traditional retail, enabling businesses to reach a global audience and consumers to shop conveniently from anywhere with internet access.