What are Malaysians buying online during the MCO?

I lasted 33 days before I caved in to shop for clothes online. I bought jeans. Jeans! I won’t even be wearing them if I’m going to be stuck at home during the MCO, in fact, I’m always in sweatpants these days. Here’s the kicker—I don’t think any of you can stand not spending money on things you don’t need, either these days.

eCommerce is proven to be one of few industries that would thrive in these challenging circumstances. Commerce.Asia saw a surge of 149% year-on-year GrossMerchandise Volume (GMV) growth in the first quarter since the Movement Control Order (MCO) was introduced.

“We are seeing significant growth in our merchants’ sales across various product categories. While some were practical purchases of essential items, other purchases were complete surprises to us given that the country is undergoing MCO. This change in buying behaviour shows that Malaysians are adapting to the new living situations,” said Commerce.Asia Founder and Executive Chairman Ganesh Kumar Bangah.

Commerce.Asia leveraged their database to analyse online sales trends (30 days of MCO vs 30 days before MCO) across their merchants and compiled a list of the fastest growing eCommerce product categories, with fascinating results:

Surprisingly, the fastest growing product transacted online during the MCO was ladies underwear at a whopping 909% increase. Not to speculate, but libido enhancers also show an increase in sales so maybe a correlation?

The 880% increase in frying pan and wok sales, a 250% increase in salt sales, and a 347% in gelatine powder sales are definitely due to people cooking at home more often. Also, more people are trying to work out at home, so a 200% increase in home fitness equipment makes sense, too. And with health being a major concern, it was no surprise that latex gloves saw increased sales (888% increase!) as people try to protect themselves from the virus.

Any of these surprised you? You can also click here to learn more about Commerce.Asia.

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