As of 2024, the United States leads the world in online retail spending, with 33.7% of consumer purchases made through ecommerce platforms. Close behind is China, commanding 31.2% of retail spending online. Together, these two nations dominate the digital retail landscape, highlighting the maturity and depth of their ecommerce ecosystems.
The United Kingdom ranks third with 23.2%, followed by South Korea (22%), and the Netherlands (20.9%). Canada holds a respectable position at 17.9%, nearly mirroring the global average of 17.3%. Japan, Italy, and Germany fall between 14% and 16%, showing steady digital retail adoption.
Interestingly, over 82% of global retail purchases still happen in physical stores, signaling significant room for ecommerce growth, especially in mid-tier and emerging markets. As mobile-first payment and shopping platforms expand globally, the next wave of growth may come from countries currently below the 15% digital retail threshold.
This data offers a clear view of the global shift toward online consumer behavior — and underscores the strategic importance of ecommerce infrastructure and digital readiness in driving economic evolution.
