E-commerce raises incomes and optimism in far west

Difficulties

Though e-commerce is thriving in Aksu, its development has encountered difficulties, especially when it comes to raising funds to start or expand businesses.

"People just don't believe in this business model," said Mehmut, the trader.

When he tried to set up his online store three years ago, he asked his father for a loan, but he refused, calling online business "a fraud".

Eventually, one of Mehmut's college teachers in Anhui province loaned him money to use as startup capital, and helped again by providing a further 20,000 yuan for operating expenses.

"Without the support and encouragement of my college teacher, I would not have come this far," Mehmut said.

Not every fledgling entrepreneur is as lucky as Mehmut, though.

Liu Huifang, who sells honey from her online store in the Aksu E-commerce Industrial Park, said consumers already recognize her products, so she needs to expand her business to meet the rising demand.

However, the difficulty small and micro businesses face in obtaining loans from banks means she has to raise most of the money herself.

"This is hampering my business from growing bigger," the 28-year-old said.