Dhaka, May 14: Jiji.ng has acquired Bangladesh-based classifieds marketplace Bikroy, marking the company’s first acquisition outside Africa and signaling a growing trend of African startups pursuing international expansion.
The value of the deal has not been disclosed. However, Jiji Chief Executive Officer Anton Volianskyi said the acquisition was financed through the company’s internal resources.
Founded in 2014, Jiji has grown into one of Africa’s largest online classifieds platforms, operating across multiple countries and serving more than 90 million users. The company processes an estimated $70 billion in gross merchandise value annually.
Jiji’s growth strategy has largely focused on entering competitive markets, scaling aggressively, and consolidating through acquisitions. The company previously acquired OLX’s African operations and Ghana-based Tonaton to strengthen its regional footprint.
The company entered the Bangladesh market in March 2025, viewing the country as a high-potential digital economy driven by a young population and rising internet penetration. Bangladesh currently has more than 130 million internet users, alongside a rapidly expanding e-commerce ecosystem.
Industry observers note that the market remains increasingly competitive, with strong local players and international platforms, including Chinese e-commerce giant Temu, intensifying competition in the sector.
Following the acquisition, Bikroy will continue operating under its existing brand name, as Jiji believes local brand recognition remains crucial in Bangladesh’s evolving online marketplace industry.
Jiji plans to integrate its proprietary technology, operational tools, and marketplace expertise into Bikroy’s platform while ramping up marketing investments to accelerate user growth and market expansion.
The acquisition reflects a broader shift among emerging-market technology firms that are increasingly expanding beyond their home regions and exporting proven business models into new international markets.
