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Alibaba ties up with Intel on SME-market PCs

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-05-13 15:57

Chinese e-commerce group Alibaba.com said it has entered into a tie-up with Intel Corp for a PC targeted at small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

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"There are 42 million small and medium-enterprises in China. However, only a small number of them have launched E-commerce services, which will significantly limit their growth" Wei Zhe, chief executive of Alibaba.com said. "Alibaba sees a significant potential in this market."

According to Wei, Alibaba will embed its new E-commerce platform into the PCs, while Intel will provide support on Internet security and services based on its chip platform.

Intel and Alibaba are currently selecting domestic PC manufacturers to make the PCs and bring in IT service providers to integrate their services in the product. Alibaba expects the first machines to be offered this year.

He said Alibaba may launch new e-commerce software in the second half to help small companies lower their e-commerce costs.

Wei also said the company will set up e-commerce joint ventures overseas with local partners.

Last month, Alibaba tied up with Infomedia India Ltd to create an online sourcing community in India.