Alibaba in Canada: A study of the world’s largest e-commerce company, and the implications for Canadian companies

Date

2015

Authors

Ross, Gregory

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Bachelor of Commerce Best Business Research Papers

Abstract

E-Commerce in China is a booming industry, fueled by an ever-increasing middle class and a population that is highly tech-savvy. This e-commerce revolution is being led by the Alibaba Group, the biggest player in the industry. In this paper, I explore the Alibaba Group as a company, with an emphasis on its success as a result of an “ecosystem” of companies that make it an especially powerful competitor. I then make a CAGE Framework analysis of China and Canada, to understand the implications for Canadian companies of using Alibaba for sourcing products and connecting with Chinese consumers. I then add some commentary from a series of interviews I conducted with users of Alibaba (Canadian and Chinese). This both builds on and advances the points made by the CAGE Framework. This information can ultimately be used as a resource for managers of Canadian companies that are looking to use e-commerce and Alibaba specifically to connect with Chinese markets.

Description

Keywords

Citation

Ross, G. (2015). Alibaba in Canada: A study of the world’s largest e-commerce company, and the implications for Canadian companies. Bachelor of Commerce Best Business Research Papers, 8, 78–87.