Global e-commerce app downloads rise from 4.3B in 2019 to 6.5B in 2024

According to a recent Sensor Tower report, the e-commerce landscape has seen remarkable growth, with global app downloads rising from 4.3 billion in 2019 to 6.5 billion in 2024. This represents a 5.6% increase from the previous year, with 63% of downloads originating from Google Play. This upward trend underscores the growing reliance on mobile platforms for shopping, particularly as consumers increasingly seek convenience and personalized experiences.

Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Japan led the charge in download growth, each region recording over 20% increases in 2024. Latin America saw a 26% surge, driven by Temu’s expansion into markets like Brazil and Colombia, as well as the continued popularity of local platforms like Mercado Libre. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia’s growth was fueled by rising demand in Indonesia and the Philippines, while Japan saw significant momentum thanks to the success of apps like Matsukiyo Cocokara.

Per the report, Temu emerged as the top contender in 2024, leading both the global e-commerce app download and growth charts. With a staggering 69% year-over-year increase in downloads, the app reached 550 million downloads by the end of the year, solidifying its presence in over 40 countries. By December 2024, Temu’s cumulative global downloads neared an impressive 900 million.

In China, economic fluctuations prompted a shift toward budget-friendly shopping platforms. Alibaba (1688) witnessed a 72% increase in downloads, becoming the fastest-growing e-commerce app on iOS. Its monthly active users (MAUs) also saw a notable 76% growth. Second-hand trading platforms Xianyu and Zhuanzhuan ranked among the top downloads, growing by 28% and 13%, respectively.

JD.com maintained its stronghold as a leading e-commerce platform, driven by the popularity of its state-subsidized offerings. The platform recorded a 12% rise in downloads and a 16% increase in MAUs. Additionally, the trendy collectibles app Kulechaowan made a splash in 2024, fueled by the growing “Guzi (Goods) Economy” trend.

The merger of Japanese drugstore giants Matsumotokiyoshi and Cocokara Fine in 2021 paved the way for the successful launch of the Matsukiyo Cocokara app in January 2024. Leveraging strong brand recognition and convenient one-stop services, the app quickly gained traction, topping Japan’s e-commerce app download growth chart.

By December 2024, Matsukiyo Cocokara had become the third most downloaded mobile app in Japan, trailing only TikTok and Temu. The app’s MAUs had nearly quadrupled since February, showcasing its strong appeal among Japanese consumers seeking seamless and comprehensive digital shopping experiences.

The report also highlights significant shifts in digital advertising strategies among top shopping brands. Retailers are increasingly investing in creative ad content and targeted campaigns to capture consumer attention across various markets. Notably, Sensor Tower’s insights reveal that adopting these strategies has led to higher engagement rates and improved customer acquisition.