Lazada trims workforce in Singapore, other Southeast Asia markets

The move affects about 5% of staff as e-commerce sector continues restructuring.

Lazada has laid off 5% of its workforce across its Southeast Asia operations, including Singapore, as part of a regional restructuring exercise, according to a company statement.

The company, which also operates in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, did not immediately disclose the number of employees affected in each market, when asked by Singapore Business Review.

“Lazada is reviewing selected roles across Southeast Asia as part of our continued effort to ensure the organisation remains focused, efficient, and aligned with current business needs,” the company said.

It added that affected employees will be engaged directly and supported through the transition, in line with applicable requirements in each market.

In Singapore, Lazada said it is working with the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union, an affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress, to manage the process. In other markets, it said it is engaging relevant government agencies where required.

Reports note that the layoffs are not linked to artificial intelligence initiatives.

The restructuring comes amidst similar moves in the regional e-commerce sector. 

Shopee cut about 8% of its developer workforce earlier in June, whilst Amazon has also reduced staff in Singapore following changes to its grocery delivery operations, according to previous reports.

Lazada last carried out layoffs in January 2024, affecting both regional and local roles, according to previous reports.