Alibaba adopts GS1 standards

Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group has agreed to work with global standards body GS1 and GS1 China to standardise product information on its platforms.

Alibaba Group is encouraging brand owners to adopt GS1 standards for product information management and use the Global Trade Item Number for uniquely identifying their products.

The company will also encourage all users to join the Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN)  for online exchange of up-to-date product information.

GDSN functionality will be implemented in stages, with Alibaba planning to start by inviting brand owners in the health food, maternal, beauty and make-up, and personal care segments to join the network.

Australian companies interested in the Chinese market have been invited to a free information session on the development co-hosted by GS1 Australia, Alibaba and Austrade next Thursday at 8.30 am.

The Melbourne event will include speakers including Alibaba Group Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand Maggie Zhou and Austrade China adviser Chuyang Liu.

GS1 Australia CEO Maria Palazzolo said Alibaba’s initiative will help brand owners manage their supply chain more effectively and provide standard information that complies with laws and regulations.

“Consumers today demand transparency in their online transactions. Investing in the GDSN and GS1 standards will provide accurate and complete product information up and down the supply chain,” she said.

“The GDSN will also provide consumers with access to authentic and rich product content, which helps brand integrity and improves the consumer experience in today’s global e-commerce industry.”

Image courtesy hinglish Notes.