India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035: Tier 2 & 3 Cities to Drive 4X Expansion
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 is set to witness unprecedented expansion, driven by rising internet penetration, increasing smartphone adoption, and a surge in digital payments. According to a report by Anarock and ETRetail, India’s e-commerce market is expected to grow fourfold over the next decade, reaching $550 billion by 2035 from an estimated $125 billion in 2024.
This rapid expansion is primarily attributed to the growing adoption of online shopping in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which will account for 64% of online shoppers by FY2030, up from 56% in FY2024.
As the India e-commerce market growth 2035 accelerates, the sector’s contribution to India’s overall retail industry will also rise, with e-commerce penetration expected to jump from 9% in 2023 to 22% by 2035.
India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035: Key Drivers of Expansion
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 is fueled by several factors:
1. Rising Smartphone & Internet Penetration
The rapid adoption of smartphones and expanding internet access have made online shopping more accessible to millions of Indians. Rural and semi-urban areas are now actively participating in digital commerce, breaking the notion that e-commerce is an urban phenomenon.
2. Growth of Digital Payments & UPI Adoption
The evolution of India’s digital payment infrastructure has played a significant role in boosting e-commerce transactions. The rise of UPI, mobile wallets, and instant payment solutions has made online shopping more convenient and secure for consumers across all regions.
3. Expanding Middle-Class & Rising Disposable Income
The expansion of India’s middle class and increasing disposable income levels are contributing to higher consumer spending. The younger, tech-savvy population is more comfortable with digital transactions, further driving the e-commerce boom.
4. Advancements in Logistics & Supply Chain
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 is also being supported by a constantly improving supply chain and logistics network. With e-commerce giants covering nearly every postal pincode, even consumers in remote areas now have access to a wide range of products.
“Besides the metros, e-commerce players are tapping into the demand from smaller towns and cities. As a result, the share of online shoppers from Tier 2 and 3 cities has increased from 46% in FY2020 to 56% in FY2024 and is projected to reach 64% by FY2030,” said Anuj Kejriwal, CEO and MD of Anarock Retail.
India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035: Projected Market Expansion
According to the Anarock-ETRetail report, the India e-commerce market growth 2035 will follow a CAGR of 15%, reaching:
- $550 billion by 2035 (up from $125 billion in 2024).
- The overall retail industry will grow to $2.5 trillion, expanding at 6% CAGR from $1.2 trillion in 2023.
The unorganized retail sector, consisting of kirana stores and independent shops, will continue to dominate, but its market share will decline from 79% in 2023 to 61% by 2035.
At the same time, organized retail will expand from 12% to 17%, and e-commerce will surge from 9% to 22% by 2035.
India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035: Market Structure & Changing Consumer Preferences
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 is also expected to witness a shift in market dynamics, with niche vertical marketplaces and direct-to-consumer brands gaining traction.
1. Dominance of Horizontal Marketplaces
Currently, the Indian e-commerce sector is dominated by horizontal marketplace players like:
✔ Amazon
✔ Flipkart
✔ Myntra
These platforms thrive due to their extensive product catalogs, competitive pricing, and robust logistics networks.
2. Growth of Niche Marketplaces & Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Brands
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 will also be shaped by the rise of vertical e-commerce players, catering to specific product categories.
- Nykaa (Beauty & Personal Care)
- BigBasket (Grocery & Daily Essentials)
- Lenskart (Eyewear)
- FirstCry (Baby Products)
Additionally, social commerce and direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands will disrupt the traditional marketplace model, offering personalized and category-specific shopping experiences.
“Consumers are seeking more personalized shopping experiences, and emerging players are capturing an increasing share of the market,” the report stated.
India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035: Key Takeaways
✔ E-commerce penetration will rise from 9% in 2023 to 22% by 2035.
✔ Tier 2 & 3 cities will account for 64% of India’s online shoppers by FY2030.
✔ The market is projected to grow from $125 billion (2024) to $550 billion (2035), at a 15% CAGR.
✔ Organized retail will grow from 12% to 17%, while unorganized retail will drop from 79% to 61%.
✔ D2C brands, social commerce, and niche marketplaces will reshape the e-commerce ecosystem.
India E-Commerce Market Growth 2035 Poised for Massive Expansion
The India e-commerce market growth 2035 presents tremendous opportunities for retailers, logistics companies, and tech-driven startups. As digital adoption rises, smaller cities will drive the next wave of growth, reshaping consumer shopping behaviors and market trends.
With logistics innovations, payment flexibility, and customized shopping experiences, the future of India’s e-commerce sector looks incredibly promising, with continued expansion beyond urban centers.
As businesses adapt to these evolving trends, India’s e-commerce market is well-positioned to become one of the largest globally by 2035.