Lazada Reduces Workforce Across Southeast Asia, Affecting Around 5% of Staff

Regional e-commerce platform Lazada has reduced its workforce across Southeast Asia, with approximately 5% of employees impacted, including staff in Singapore.

The company confirmed that it is reviewing selected positions across the region and said affected employees are being informed directly. Lazada stated that support and guidance will be provided to employees whose roles are affected, in accordance with local requirements.

The move comes amid broader workforce adjustments in the e-commerce sector. Recent months have seen other major industry players announce job reductions as companies focus on improving efficiency and managing operating costs.

According to industry observers, the rapid expansion and aggressive hiring that characterized the pandemic-era e-commerce boom have slowed. Businesses are increasingly relying on technology and artificial intelligence to streamline operations while maintaining growth.

Lazada said it has been working with the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU) regarding the restructuring process. The union confirmed that it was informed before the workforce reduction and noted that support measures will be provided for affected union members.

The company has carried out previous restructuring exercises in recent years, including workforce reductions in 2024 and 2023. The latest changes are part of a broader organizational realignment, according to stakeholders involved in the process.

Founded in 2012 and backed by Alibaba Group, Lazada operates across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. The company remains one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Southeast Asia while continuing to face increasing competition in the regional market.