With the advancement of global economic integration and the vigorous development of cross-border e-commerce, Southeast Asia has become a hot market in the cross-border e-commerce sector due to its large population base, rapidly growing internet penetration rate, and increasingly rising consumption capacity. In this market full of potential, Southeast Asian overseas warehouses are gradually emerging, bringing many opportunities as well as a series of challenges to cross-border e-commerce enterprises.

Surging Demand for Overseas Warehouses Driven by Southeast Asian E-Commerce Growth
Background: With the rapid development of platforms such as Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop in Southeast Asia, the demand for localized warehousing among Chinese cross-border sellers has increased significantly.
Trends:


  • In Q1 2024, the area of overseas warehouses in Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam increased by over 30% year-on-year, particularly in warehouses near major ports (such as Port Klang and Ho Chi Minh City), where rental prices rose significantly.
  • Some Chinese enterprises are cooperating with local logistics providers through joint venture models to build warehouses, reducing compliance risks.


Indonesia Strengthens Overseas Warehouse Regulations and Introduces New Rules


  • Policy Changes: Indonesia requires all overseas warehouse operators to complete BPOM (Food and Drug Regulatory Agency) certification by the end of 2024, especially for warehousing of beauty and food products.
  • Impact: Small and medium-sized sellers may face higher compliance costs, but this will help standardize the market in the long term.


Chinese Enterprises Layout Southeast Asian Hub Warehouses
Typical Cases:


  • Cainiao Network: Completed the construction of its largest smart logistics hub in Southeast Asia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, supporting 48-hour delivery coverage of major cities such as Singapore and Thailand.
  • J&T International: Added 2 new overseas warehouses in Manila, the Philippines, focusing on “one-piece drop shipping” and return services.
    Trend: Leading enterprises are shifting from single warehousing to “warehousing and distribution integrated” solutions.


Thailand Introduces Tax Incentives for Overseas Warehouses
New Policy: The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) provides corporate income tax reductions (80% exemption for the first 3 years) for eligible foreign-funded overseas warehouse projects, with conditions such as automated equipment investment accounting for more than 20%.
Opportunity: Suitable for enterprises planning to establish Thailand as a regional distribution center.