A newly launched e-commerce platform, Avedson Marketplace, may offer a solution to the ongoing economic crisis in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. Introduced in February of this year, the platform facilitates trade across the islands, serving both sellers and customers—from local producers to retailers—by acting as a crucial bridge in the marketplace.
Micronesian and Northern Mariana Islands local products have seen a decline in promotion since the 2000s. A report from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Australian Government highlights a worrying trend in the Federated States of Micronesia where local food production and consumption are decreasing. The report indicates a growing preference among Micronesians for imported and processed foods over local produce, negatively impacting the local economy.
Meanwhile, the Northern Mariana Islands face ongoing economic challenges driven by high costs associated with imports and exports, which restrict access to various goods beyond their borders. Additionally, neighboring islands such as Palau and Guam also encounter their own economic difficulties and growth constraints, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19.
Avedson Marketplace, the first online trading platform of its kind in Micronesia, is revolutionizing commerce across the region. As the sole online marketplace within the islands, Avedson connects buyers and sellers, providing a space for both local and imported products to be sold across Micronesia.
Originating from Saipan, Avedson Marketplace acts as a vital trading hub, enabling islanders to access a diverse range of goods. This accessibility is enhancing economic growth and connectivity within the region, supported by efficient transportation and logistics networks. The platform facilitates the movement of local produce between islands, maintaining freshness and quality.
Avedson’s infrastructure advancements, including digital platforms, streamline the trading process. Sellers can showcase their products and buyers can seamlessly make purchases across islands. Registration for sellers is free, with no hidden charges, and Avedson assists with setting up online stores.
Even if a seller is located as far as Palau, and a buyer from Saipan wishes to purchase their product, the transaction can be completed without hassle through Avedson Marketplace. This convenience demonstrates the platform’s robust features, making it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to establish an online business.
Discussing the geography and economics of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), which includes main islands like Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, the local economy is predominantly agricultural. Farmers cultivate a variety of crops and rear cattle, trading these goods across the islands through platforms like Avedson Marketplace.
This trading model is crucial for the local economy. Without it, producers would have to rely on middlemen, which can lead to increased prices and reduced customer satisfaction due to markups. By eliminating intermediaries, Avedson Marketplace allows products to reach consumers directly at original prices, promoting repeat business and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Additionally, the platform accommodates economical shipping options, using local shippers for nearby deliveries or airlines for further destinations. With a potential market across islands, where e-commerce competition remains low, the platform offers substantial opportunities for growth and stability, particularly amidst global economic challenges.
Overall, Avedson Marketplace not only fosters trade but also supports island economies by aligning with local needs and ensuring that the supply meets market demands. This initiative is a part of a broader effort to support local livelihoods and economic stability in the region.
Setting up a store on Avedson Marketplace is streamlined and worry-free, providing sellers with comprehensive support throughout the entire process. The platform offers resources ranging from logo and banner creation to product posting, ensuring that even those new to online selling can navigate with ease.
Avedson also enhances the customer-seller interaction with a chat function on its website, allowing buyers to easily contact sellers with inquiries and receive instant responses. This feature significantly improves the shopping experience, making it more interactive and responsive.
Furthermore, sellers have the capability to proactively reach out to their regular customers, providing updates such as the readiness of produce for harvest, thereby facilitating advance orders. This level of communication and convenience underscores the effectiveness of Avedson Marketplace in simplifying and enhancing trade across the islands.
