The phrase refers to online stores based in China that offer products at very low prices. These platforms often feature a wide array of goods, spanning clothing, electronics, home goods, and more, frequently available for direct purchase by consumers globally. For example, an individual seeking to buy inexpensive consumer electronics might turn to one of these digital marketplaces.
The significance of these platforms lies in their accessibility to affordable goods, particularly beneficial for budget-conscious consumers or those in developing economies. Historically, sourcing products from China has been a cost-effective strategy for businesses. The online iteration of this trend has democratized access to this cost advantage, enabling individuals and small businesses to directly benefit from lower manufacturing costs. The lower prices are achieved through a combination of factors, including lower labor costs, economies of scale in production, and, at times, reduced overheads for the online retailers themselves.
