Social commerce has evolved from a social engagement and product-discovery channel into an integrated digital shopping ecosystem, enabling consumers to discover, evaluate, purchase, and advocate for products directly through social platforms. The convergence of creator-led content, user-generated reviews, AI-powered personalization, live shopping, and seamless in-app checkout is shortening the traditional purchase journey and reshaping consumer behaviour. With approximately 70% of global consumers having purchased through social media and the global social commerce market projected to approach USD 1 trillion by 2030, the channel is becoming an increasingly important component of the global retail landscape.
Key Highlights
- Rapid market expansion: Global social commerce revenue grew from USD 155.9 billion in 2020 to USD 502.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach approximately USD 929 billion by 2030.
- Social media is becoming a commerce destination: Around 70% of global consumers have purchased through social media, while Gen Z shows particularly strong engagement with Snapchat (66%), Instagram (60%), and TikTok (48%), highlighting the growing importance of visual and creator-led commerce.
- Strong conversion opportunity remains: Although 67% of social shoppers browse online at least 2–3 times a week, only 28% purchase at the same frequency, indicating significant headroom for brands to convert social engagement into transactions.
- Platform and experience are shaping future commerce: Instagram (27%) and Facebook (25%) lead future purchase intent, while TikTok (22%) underscores the growing influence of short-form video and experience-led shopping.
About The Author
Ankur Malhotra
Ankur is a research and knowledge leader with 20+ years of experience in business and financial research, serving clients across investment banking, consulting, accounting, and advisory. He has expertise in establishing global knowledge centers, delivering business intelligence solutions, and driving thought leadership. Before joining HBGTM Insights, Ankur worked with Forvis Mazars, Korn Ferry, and was part of the founding team of Acuity Knowledge Partners. He is a CFA charterholder from ICFAI, Hyderabad, and a graduate of Delhi University.
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