JOHANNESBURG, April 18 (Reuters) - South African online

fashion retailer Zando on Thursday launched an international

e-commerce division called Zando Global in the hopes of taking

on fast-fashion Chinese e-commerce retailers Shein and Temu at

home.

The rapid rise of Shein and Temu - driven by robust demand

for their low-priced apparel like $10 tops and $5 biker shorts -

is putting pressure on local brick-and-mortar and online fashion

retailers to find ways to respond to their budget prices.

Temu launched in South Africa earlier this year.

"With the rise of Shein and Temu, South African consumers

have often found themselves hesitant to order internationally

due to concerns about product quality, delivery reliability, and

returns processes," Zando said in a statement.

"Zando Global steps in as the local hero, offering a

trustworthy alternative for those seeking international products

without the uncertainties of ordering from abroad."

In order to stand out, Zando said its new unit ensures that

South African shoppers can easily receive, collect and return

products, offering hassle-free shopping with local operations.

It is also promising rigorous checks for every product

before dispatching it to customers.

Zando Global will also use local physical collection points

for shoppers buying a wide range of 200,000 products spanning

fashion, homeware, gadgets, wigs and more, the retailer said.

Zando, founded in 2012 and part of Africa-focused e-commerce

retailer Jumia Group, will use Buffalo International

Logistics, which is Temu and Shein's logistics partner. Free

shipping will start at 550 rand ($28.76).

Zando's international importing business comes as U.S.

e-commerce giant Amazon ( AMZN ) is set to launch in South

Africa this year.

The launches come at a time when South Africa has seen a

sharp rise in online shopping after the pandemic created an

opportunity for e-commerce to finally take hold, with retailers

doubling down on investments in response.

($1 = 19.1211 rand)