Sea Limited has signed a MoU with OpenAI to explore how artificial intelligence can be applied in commerce, payments, and distribution, with a focus on reaching consumers and small businesses in Southeast Asia.
The partnership aims to increase access to AI tools in the region by combining Sea’s digital platforms with OpenAI’s technology.
As the first initiative under the agreement, Shopee will offer three months of complimentary ChatGPT Plus access to Shopee VIP members in Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The benefit launches on 8 August as part of the platform’s 8.8 Sales Campaign and includes access to faster response speeds and early use of new tools such as ChatGPT Agent.
The offer is expected to expand to additional markets over time.
This follows Sea’s February 2025 launch of Operator, a platform that allows users to build AI-powered agents.
“AI is one of the most significant technological breakthroughs in human history, and will revolutionize how people connect, discover, and transact in more thoughtful and intuitive ways.
Our deepening collaboration with OpenAI supports our ambition to stay at the forefront of innovation, while empowering the communities we serve to realize their full potential in the digital economy.”
said Forrest Li, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sea.
“Asia’s young, tech-savvy population and high mobile penetration make it one of the fastest growing markets for AI adoption and innovation.
By applying OpenAI’s capabilities in areas like commerce, we look forward to working with Sea as they equip more businesses with smarter tools to manage operations and reach customers.”
added Oliver Jay, Managing Director of International, OpenAI.
Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by komodo via Freepik
