Ecommerce Service Fees Rise, MSMEs Are Urged To Focus On Boosting Sales

Illustration. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - Secretary-General of the Indonesian MSME Association (Akumindo) Edy Misero appealed to MSME players to focus on boosting their sales in order to minimize the impact of the increase in the cost of marketplace services.

Edy made this statement in response to questions related to Tokopedia's announcement that would increase their service costs from 2 percent to 6.5 percent as of May 1, 2024.

Edy admitted that the decision raised concerns for MSME players because the increase in service costs could have an impact on their profits.

However, instead of increasing the price of their products, MSME players are urged to boost sales volume, especially tokopedia, which has now merged with Tiktok, is a large market and has potential for MSMEs.

"Okay, it's okay, the service costs are up 5 percent, but how do I boost my sales, which were 1,000 pieces, I could sell it to 2,000. So that in terms of quality and quantity it will generate sufficient profits," he said, quoted from Antara, Wednesday, April 24.

He also appealed to MSME actors to take into account their profit margin after this increase.

On the other hand, Edy hopes that Tokopedia can increase its service costs in hopes.

"Don't make us as MSME actors surprised by the increase in service costs," he said.

"Even so, one thing that must be held by MSMEs must remain in any condition," he continued.

Tokopedia announced that it will adjust service costs from 2 percent to 6.5 percent valid for selling partners listed as Power Merchant and Power Merchant PRO. The cost of service will be calculated based on the category of products sold.

Tokopedia divides into five product group categories, namely category A (up to 6.50 percent), B (5.50 percent), C (4 percent), D (3.10 percent), and E (2 percent).

These five categories are divided into groups of various types of goods such as electronic goods, fashion, mothers and babies, beauty, health, body care, food and beverages, sports, and households.

Tokopedia's move follows Shopee and Lazada, which have already increased their service costs since December 2023.