Jiji.ng, the Nigerian-based online marketplace, has announced its first acquisition outside Africa with the purchase of Bangladesh’s classifieds platform Bikroy. The move marks a significant milestone in the company’s strategy, signaling a broader shift among African tech startups toward global expansion.
According to CEO Anton Volianskyi, the acquisition was financed through internal resources. However, the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 2014, Jiji has grown into one of Africa’s leading online classifieds platforms, operating across multiple countries and serving more than 90 million users. The company reportedly processes approximately $70 billion in annual gross merchandise value, positioning it as a major player in the continent’s digital commerce ecosystem.
Jiji has followed an aggressive expansion strategy, entering new markets, competing with existing platforms, and later consolidating its position through acquisitions. This approach has previously included the purchase of OLX’s African operations as well as Tonaton in Ghana.
The company entered Bangladesh in March 2025, targeting a fast-growing digital economy driven by a youthful population and rising internet penetration. With over 130 million internet users, Bangladesh presents a significant opportunity in e-commerce, although competition remains strong from local platforms and global players such as Temu.
Following the acquisition, Bikroy will retain its brand identity, while gradually integrating Jiji’s technology, tools, and operational systems. Jiji also plans to increase investment in marketing to accelerate growth in the market.
The deal underscores a broader trend of emerging market tech companies expanding beyond their home regions, leveraging proven business models to enter new and highly competitive international markets.