Alibaba has again smashed its Singles Day sales records with $US30.8 billion changing hands during the 24 hour 11.11 global shopping festival that was held on Sunday.
The day's takings exceeded the $25.3 billion record set last year, and sales hit $US1 billion in one minute and 25 seconds.
More than 180,000 brands participated in the event, and 40 per cent of consumers made purchases from international brands, with Australia among the top five countries selling to China alongside Japan, United States, South Korea, and Germany.
“Today we witnessed the strength and rise of China’s consumption economy and consumers’ continued pursuit to upgrade their everyday lifestyles,” said Alibaba Group CEO Daniel Zhang (pictured).
“Participation from the entire Alibaba ecosystem enabled our brand and merchant partners to engage with consumers like never before. Looking ahead, Alibaba will continue to lead the evolution towards the future digital economy and lifestyle.”
The 11.11 shopping festival began in 2009 with participation from just 27 merchants as an event to raise awareness of the value of online shopping.
The event is often referred to as “Singles Day,” as it falls on a Chinese holiday that celebrates pride in being single with a special purchase.
