Lazada has released a new report, “Bridging the AI Gap: Online Seller Perceptions and Adoption Trends in Southeast Asia,” developed with Kantar, which highlights the challenges faced by eCommerce sellers in adopting artificial intelligence (AI). The report surveyed 1,214 sellers across six Southeast Asian countries, revealing that AI has been integrated into only 37% of business operations on average, despite 89% of sellers acknowledging its productivity benefits.
The report identifies Indonesia and Vietnam as leaders in AI adoption, with 42% integration, followed by Singapore and Thailand at 39%. However, a significant gap exists between sellers’ perceived and actual AI adoption, with many facing challenges related to cost and implementation. Whilst 93% of sellers agree on the importance of AI for long-term cost savings, 64% cite its costliness and time-consuming nature as barriers.
Lazada categorises sellers into three archetypes: AI Adepts, AI Aspirants, and AI Agnostics, based on their level of AI integration. Only 24% of sellers are AI Adepts, having integrated AI into at least 80% of their operations. The majority, 76%, fall into the AI Aspirants and AI Agnostics categories, indicating a need for more effective AI solutions.
To address these challenges, Lazada is launching the Online Sellers Artificial Intelligence Readiness Playbook, offering strategic guidance tailored to sellers’ AI maturity levels. The playbook aims to help sellers leverage AI-driven solutions to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the eCommerce landscape. James Dong, CEO of Lazada Group, emphasised the company’s commitment to bridging the knowledge and adoption gap, stating, “We aim to develop accessible AI solutions that address the unique challenges faced by sellers across different markets.”
Lazada’s ongoing investment in AI innovations includes new Generative AI features designed to empower sellers by optimising product listings, streamlining operations, and boosting customer conversions. These efforts are part of Lazada’s strategy to make technology more accessible and drive sustainable business growth across Southeast Asia.
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