Which Countries Does Amazon Operate In? A Comprehensive Overview

Which countries does Amazon operate in? As an online seller, this is a crucial question. Amazon’s reach spans the globe, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. The marketplace has specific websites for the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, India, Australia, and several countries across Europe.

For EU-based sellers—or those wishing to sell in the EU—understanding Amazon’s European operations is essential. This guide will explain which countries Amazon operates in throughout Europe, how each market differs, and what the VAT implications are. Let’s explore in detail.

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Curious about EU VAT compliance? Check out our OSS Guide for European Sellers on the hellotax blog.

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For more Fulfillment by Amazon information, visit Amazon’s official FBA page.

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1. Amazon’s Global Presence

Global Marketplaces

• North America: United States (amazon.com), Canada (amazon.ca), Mexico (amazon.com.mx)
• Europe: Germany (amazon.de), United Kingdom (amazon.co.uk), France (amazon.fr), Italy (amazon.it), Spain (amazon.es), the Netherlands (amazon.nl), Sweden (amazon.se), Poland (amazon.pl)
• Asia: Japan (amazon.co.jp), India (amazon.in), Singapore (amazon.sg)
• Oceania: Australia (amazon.com.au)

These marketplaces have localized websites, languages, currencies, and logistics solutions, enabling you to connect with diverse customer bases. However, keep in mind that each region has unique rules, especially regarding tax compliance.

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2. The Amazon Marketplaces in Europe

Knowing which countries does Amazon operate in across Europe can help you decide where to expand. Below are the main European marketplaces and key considerations for each:

2.1 Germany (amazon.de)

• Market Size: Germany is Amazon’s largest European market, with a substantial customer base.
• VAT & Invoicing: Storing products here usually requires a German VAT number and adherence to stricter invoicing requirements.

2.2 United Kingdom (amazon.co.uk)

• Post-Brexit Landscape: Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, it remains a top destination for online sellers.
• VAT & Customs: If you store goods in the UK and EU, you often need separate VAT registrations. Customs declarations are also necessary for cross-border shipments.

2.3 France (amazon.fr)

• Strong Demand: The French market offers robust e-commerce growth and a widespread FBA network.
• Compliance: Sellers storing inventory in France must register for French VAT and follow specific invoicing rules.

2.4 Italy (amazon.it)

• Growing E-commerce: Italy’s online market is expanding rapidly, making it appealing for international sellers.
• VAT Thresholds: If you hold stock in Italy or exceed distance-selling thresholds, Italian VAT registration is mandatory.

2.5 Spain (amazon.es)

• High Potential: Spain’s e-commerce sector has seen consistent growth in categories like fashion, electronics, and home goods.
• Local Storage: Storing products in Spanish warehouses triggers Spanish VAT obligations.

2.6 Netherlands (amazon.nl)

• Newer Marketplace: Although launched more recently, Amazon.nl is growing quickly.
• VAT Registration: You’ll need a Dutch VAT number if you store goods locally or surpass the distance-selling limit.

2.7 Sweden (amazon.se)

• Scandinavian Reach: Launched in 2020, Amazon Sweden helps you tap into Northern Europe.
• Local Compliance: Surpassing certain sales thresholds or storing items in Sweden requires Swedish VAT registration.

2.8 Poland (amazon.pl)

• Central Europe: Amazon Poland is another relatively new marketplace with a focus on Central and Eastern Europe.
• VAT Obligations: As with all EU countries, storing products in Poland means registering for Polish VAT.

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3. Cross-Border VAT Implications

When sellers ask “Which countries does Amazon operate in?”, they must also consider how these locations affect their VAT requirements. Here are four key areas to watch:

3.1 Storage of Goods

If you use Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), your products might be stored in multiple EU countries. Each location typically requires local VAT registration, unless a special scheme or threshold rule applies.

3.2 Distance-Selling Thresholds and OSS

Before 2021, each EU state had its own distance-selling threshold. Now, there’s an EU-wide threshold of EUR 10,000 for small sellers, supported by the One-Stop Shop (OSS) system. Once you exceed this threshold, you must charge VAT based on the customer’s country. However, remember that storing goods locally always triggers VAT registration, regardless of the threshold.

3.3 VAT Rates

VAT rates in Europe vary from around 17% to 27%, depending on the country. Price your products carefully to accommodate these differences.

3.4 Invoicing Requirements

Countries like Germany and France are known for rigorous invoicing rules. Sellers must produce valid VAT invoices upon request and maintain accurate records for audits.

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4. How Amazon’s Presence Affects Online Sellers

Now that you know which countries does Amazon operate in and the VAT complexities involved, let’s consider the broader impact on your business.

4.1 Wider Customer Base

Selling on Amazon’s multiple European sites grants you access to millions of potential buyers who trust Amazon’s brand for reliability and fast shipping.

4.2 Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

FBA can simplify logistics, but it also disperses your inventory across Amazon’s European warehouses. This distribution can trigger multi-country VAT registrations and administrative tasks.

4.3 Customer Trust and Reviews

Many European customers rely on Amazon for secure transactions and transparent review systems. Tapping into these marketplaces can quickly boost your social proof.

4.4 Competition and Fees

Amazon is highly competitive. Between referral fees, FBA costs, and VAT, you need to manage your margins carefully. Conduct thorough market research to set profitable prices.

4.5 Language and Cultural Adaptations

Localizing listings, product titles, and descriptions is vital for standing out. Consider hiring professional translators or using specialized localization services.

4.6 Complex VAT and Compliance Requirements

Multiple VAT registrations, different invoice obligations, and the OSS system can overwhelm new sellers. Expert help may save time and reduce costly errors.

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5. Tips for Selling Successfully on Amazon’s European Marketplaces

1. Research Demand and Competition
   Identify where your products fit best. Some items thrive in the German market, whereas others may do better in Italy or Spain.
2. Leverage the One-Stop Shop (OSS)
   OSS streamlines cross-border VAT reporting, but does not replace local registrations if you store goods in different EU countries.
3. Plan Your Logistics
   Decide whether to store products in a single warehouse or use Pan-EU FBA. Balancing lower shipping costs with multi-country VAT complexity is crucial.
4. Keep Paragraphs Concise
   Short paragraphs and headings help readers and improve your blog’s readability.
5. Use Transition Words
   Terms like “furthermore,” “however,” and “in addition” guide readers through your content.
6. Stay Updated on Local Rules
   European tax laws can change. Ensure you monitor new VAT regulations or partner with a compliance service such as hellotax.
7. Add High-Quality Images
   Visuals break up text, showcase products, and enhance user experience—an important factor for conversions.
8. Seek Professional Assistance
   Handling multiple VAT numbers and filing deadlines can be challenging. A specialized tax partner like hellotax can manage your registrations and compliance, letting you focus on growing your business.

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6. Conclusion

If you’re wondering “Which countries does Amazon operate in?”, the short answer is: many—especially in Europe. Selling in Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, or Poland can significantly increase your customer base and revenue potential. However, each marketplace comes with its own VAT registration rules, invoicing requirements, and logistical considerations.

To succeed, keep track of storage locations, distance-selling thresholds, and local VAT rates. Localize your listings with the proper language and keywords, and don’t forget to ensure timely compliance with local regulations. When in doubt, seek expert support from hellotax or other specialized services so you can focus on what you do best—selling products.

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Quick Recap

• Which Countries Does Amazon Operate In?
  Primarily the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan, India, and numerous European nations including Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Poland.
• Why Does This Matter for Sellers?
  More markets mean bigger sales opportunities but also complex VAT rules.
• Key Steps for Success
  Register for VAT where goods are stored, watch out for distance-selling thresholds, leverage the One-Stop Shop (OSS), and localize your listings.

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Need help handling VAT compliance across multiple Amazon EU marketplaces?
Contact hellotax today for expert guidance on registrations, filings, and everything in between. Good luck expanding your Amazon business across Europe!

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