How To Create a Shopify Store In Pakistan: 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: What You Need to Get Started

Before proceeding with our steps to create a Shopify store in Pakistan, there are a couple of things you need to know about. 

Pakistani Market Research

• Identify Your Niche: Determine what products or services you want to offer. Consider market demand, competition, and your interests or expertise.
• Understand Your Audience: Research your target audience’s preferences, buying habits, and needs. This may vary between urban and rural areas.
• Analyze Competitors: Study other e-commerce businesses in Pakistan, especially those using Shopify. Note their strengths and weaknesses to find your unique selling proposition.

Technical Requirements for Creating a Shopify Store in Pakistan

• A stable internet connection, especially in cities prone to load shedding.
• A computer or laptop for efficient store setup and management.
• Use supported web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge for optimal performance.
• High-quality product images and professional branding materials.
• A unique and memorable domain name, preferably with a ‘.pk’ or ‘.com’ extension.
• An SSL certificate, provided by Shopify, for secure online transactions.
• Details of local payment gateways for seamless integration.
• A solid shipping and logistics plan catering to Pakistan’s diverse geographic spread.
• Customer support tools, such as live chat, to enhance customer service.

Legal Aspects

• Ensure business registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
• Register for sales tax with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to obtain necessary tax numbers.
• Stay informed about the e-commerce policy framework by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.
• Implement a privacy policy for handling customer data in compliance with data protection regulations.
• Adhere to consumer rights laws for fair and transparent business practices.
• Understand and comply with Pakistan’s currency and foreign exchange regulations.
• Be aware of the legalities surrounding digital content, including copyrights and trademarks.
• Familiarize yourself with import and export laws if dealing with international shipments.
• Ensure compliance with local payment gateways like JazzCash or EasyPaisa.
• Stay compliant with Pakistan’s cyber laws to prevent electronic fraud and cyber threats.

As you gather these requirements, it’s helpful to stay informed about e-commerce trends in neighboring countries, such as understanding Shopify Price In India. This knowledge can provide insights into regional market variations and help you position your store competitively.

Or if you wish to expand your business to the global markets, such as Philippines or South Africa, we suggest you take a look at Shopify pricing packages in those countries because they are all different.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Shopify Store

Here’s a detailed breakdown of our steps to create a Shopify store in Pakistan

2.1. Shopify Sign-Up

Start with the Free Trial

Let’s start by heading to shopify.com. Shopify offers a generous 3-day free trial for all newcomers, allowing Pakistani entrepreneurs to explore the platform without financial commitments.

Start Your Shopify Free Trial

Provide Email, Password, and Store Name

• Enter a valid email address. This will be crucial for all communications and account recovery processes.
• Choose a strong password. Given the sensitivity of e-commerce operations, prioritize security.
• Your store name, at this point, doesn’t have to be final, but it helps to have a name in mind. This name will initially be used for your store’s default URL (like “storename.myshopify.com”).

Answer Shopify’s Questions

Shopify will prompt you with a few questions about your business. These could range from the nature of your products to your current revenue. Answering these helps Shopify tailor the dashboard and suggestions to your needs. For Pakistani businesses, this step also showcases the local market’s potential, emphasizing the growth opportunities.

Click “Enter My Store”

Once all the required details are filled in, this button will transport you to the heart of your e-commerce operations – the Shopify dashboard. From product listings to customer analytics, this dashboard will become the central hub for your online business.

Explore & Familiarize

The 3-day trial period is an excellent chance for Pakistani businesses to learn about Shopify’s features. Start by exploring the settings, then move on to trying out design options, and finally, list some products. 

This practical experience will prepare you well for your store’s launch, making it a critical step towards creating a successful Shopify store in Pakistan.

Once your store setup is complete, continually monitoring e-commerce trends in other regions, like Shopify Pricing Malaysia, can provide valuable insights for future expansion or diversification of your business.

2.2. Localization Settings

Language Settings

While English is widely understood in Pakistan, especially in urban centers, considering an Urdu version of your website might enhance user experience. Shopify allows store owners to add different languages.

• From your Shopify dashboard, navigate to “Settings“
• Choose “Languages.“

• Add Urdu from the “Add languages” drop-down menu.
• Translate your store content manually, or consider hiring a professional translator for culturally relevant translations.

Currency Settings

It’s essential that your store displays prices in Pakistani Rupee (PKR). 

• Go to “Settings” from your Shopify dashboard.
• Click on “Store details.”
• In the “Store currency” section, change the store currency to Pakistani Rupee (PKR).

Date and Time Format

Adapting to the local date format (DD/MM/YYYY) and time format ensures clarity for your customers. This is especially vital when communicating order delivery times, sales durations, or time-sensitive promotions.

• In your Shopify dashboard, navigate to “Settings” and then “Time zone and units of measurement.”
• Adjust the date format and set the preferred time format.

Tax Settings

Pakistani businesses need to be compliant with local tax regulations. Ensure you’ve set up the appropriate tax rates for sales within Pakistan. Shopify offers settings to adjust taxes based on your region, making compliance straightforward.

• Go to “Settings” in the Shopify dashboard and select “Taxes and duties.”

• For Pakistan, set up the appropriate tax rates as per local regulations.

Shipping and Delivery Options

Given the diversity of Pakistan’s terrain, from bustling cities like Karachi to remote areas in Balochistan, it’s vital to localize shipping options. Consider partnering with local courier services familiar with the intricacies of Pakistani addresses and routes.

• Go to “Settings” and choose “Shipping and delivery.“

• Add or adjust shipping rates and methods for Pakistan, considering local courier partnerships.

Payment Methods

While credit and debit cards are gaining traction, many Pakistanis still prefer cash on delivery (COD) or bank transfers. Integrate local payment gateways that offer these options, ensuring a smooth checkout process for your customers.

• From the Shopify dashboard, go to “Settings” and select “Payments.”

• Integrate local payment gateways that support options like COD and bank transfers.

Cultural Nuances

Apart from technical settings, it’s vital to understand cultural festivals, shopping trends, and local preferences. For instance, gearing up for sales during events like Eid or Pakistan Day can help capture the local market’s attention.

• Plan your store’s promotional calendar around Pakistani festivals and shopping seasons.
• Adjust your store’s imagery, banners, and campaigns to reflect local events like Eid, Pakistan Day, etc.

Customer Support

While Shopify offers a robust support system, consider having a local helpline or chat support that understands local issues and can communicate effectively in Urdu or regional languages if needed.

• Integrate a chat plugin, like Tawk.to or LiveChat, into your Shopify store.
• Train your support team on local issues and cultural nuances, ensuring they’re equipped to address queries in both English and Urdu.

Legal and Compliance

Be aware of local e-commerce regulations, consumer rights, and return policies specific to Pakistan. Ensure your terms of service, return policies, and other legal pages reflect these nuances.

• Navigate to “Settings” and select “Legal” on your Shopify dashboard.

• Update terms of service, return policies, and other legal documents to adhere to Pakistan’s e-commerce regulations.

2.3. Shopify Dashboard

Once you’ve registered and set up your Shopify store, the next important area to familiarize yourself with is the Shopify Dashboard. This central hub contains everything you need to manage and grow your online business, making it an indispensable tool for a Shopify store in Pakistan.

Understanding the dashboard is paramount for Pakistani entrepreneurs looking to leverage this e-commerce giant

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Navigating the Home Page

When you first log in, the home page offers a snapshot of your store’s performance.

Steps:

• Check “Today’s Sales” to get an insight into daily revenue.
• View the “Online Store Sessions” to understand visitor traffic.
• Observe the “Top products by units sold” for insights into bestsellers.

Orders Section: Manage and view all customer orders and transaction details.

Steps:

• Click on “Orders” in the left-hand sidebar.

• View order details, including products ordered, customer information, and total amounts.
• Fulfill orders by clicking on the “Fulfill” button when items are ready for dispatch.

Customers Section: Access and manage customer data.

Steps:

• Select “Customers” from the sidebar.

• View customer details like order history, contact information, and location.
• Segment your customers into groups for targeted marketing campaigns, considering local events like Eid or Pakistan Day.

Analytics Section: Gain insights into store performance, customer behavior, and sales trends.

Steps:

• Navigate to “Analytics” in the sidebar.

• Review “Reports” for detailed sales, traffic, and customer data.
• Use this data to optimize your store for Pakistani consumer preferences.

Marketing Section: Create and manage marketing campaigns.

Steps:

• Click on “Marketing” from the sidebar.

• Set up marketing campaigns targeting Pakistani festivals, seasons, and events.
• Monitor campaign performance and adjust strategies based on feedback.

Discounts Section: Offer special prices, deals, and discounts.

Steps:

• Select “Discounts” from the sidebar.

• Create discount codes or set automatic discounts for occasions like Ramadan sales or Independence Day specials.

Settings Section: Adjust store preferences, payments, and other configurations.

Steps:

• Navigate to the bottom of the sidebar and select “Settings.”
• Configure payment gateways, such as local Pakistani payment methods.
• Adjust shipping rates, tax settings, and localization options for the Pakistani market.

Apps Section: Integrate third-party applications to enhance your store’s functionality.

Steps:

• Click “Apps” on the sidebar.

• Explore and add apps that cater to Pakistani consumers, like local payment gateways or Urdu translation tools.

Step 3: Selecting a Theme, Creating Collections and Adding Products

3.1. Picking the Right Theme

Every successful online store starts with a visually appealing and functional design. For a Shopify store in Pakistan, this means choosing a Shopify theme that resonates with local aesthetics and cultural sensibilities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:

Understanding Your Audience

• Cultural Preferences: Reflect on the rich tapestry of Pakistan’s diverse regions in your design. For instance, the vibrant colors of Punjabi festivals, the intricate designs of Sindhi crafts, or the traditional motifs of Balochistan can be great inspirations.
• Mobile vs. Desktop Usage: With a significant portion of Pakistani consumers accessing online stores via mobile devices, ensure your chosen theme is mobile-friendly. Check theme previews on various devices to see how they adapt.
• Local Aesthetics: Whether it’s the traditional truck art, patterns from local textiles, or architectural elements from famous Pakistani landmarks, incorporate these into your design for a touch of local flavor.

Customizing Your Theme

Customizing your Shopify theme involves a series of actionable steps that ensure your online storefront is uniquely tailored to resonate with Pakistani audiences. Here’s a systematic guide:

Access Theme Customization Panel

• From your Shopify dashboard, navigate to “Online Store.”
• Next to the theme that you want to customize, click “Customize.”

Modify the Layout

• In the customization panel, select “Sections.”

• Adjust the layout by adding, moving, or removing sections as per your preference.

Personalize the Homepage Banner

• Under “Sections,” select “Header” or “Slideshow” (based on the theme).
• Upload high-resolution images that resonate with Pakistani culture, such as bustling local markets, famous landmarks, or festive celebrations.
• Add relevant taglines or promotional texts.

Integrate Local Imagery

• For product images, consider incorporating photographs of real Pakistani people using or showcasing your products.
• In “Sections,” click on the relevant area (like “Featured Image” or “Gallery“) and replace or add images with those reflecting local nuances.

Infuse Cultural Motifs and Colors

• Navigate to “Theme Settings” in the customization panel.
• Click on “Colors” and adjust the palette to include prominent Pakistani colors like rich greens and whites.
• In the same “Theme Settings,” explore options like “Background” to integrate patterns or motifs prevalent in Pakistani culture.

Adjust Typography

• In “Theme Settings,” select “Typography.”
• Choose fonts that align with your brand’s vibe and the aesthetics you aim to portray, keeping in mind readability for your Pakistani audience.

Incorporate Localized Call-to-Action (CTA)

Modify CTAs to reflect terms more familiar to a Pakistani audience. For instance, instead of “Buy Now,” consider using terms like “Grab Yours Today!” to resonate more with local buying behavior.

Add Social Media Links

• Under “Theme Settings,” click on “Social Media.”
• Add links to your brand’s social platforms, especially those popular in Pakistan like Facebook and Instagram, to foster better customer interaction.

Save and Preview

• After making all the necessary changes, click “Save” at the top right.
• Preview your store to ensure all customizations appear as desired.

3.2. Crafting Collections

Collections serve as your virtual store aisles. They allow you to present your products in an organized, intuitive manner, ensuring customers can find what they’re looking for with ease. Here’s a comprehensive guide on crafting collections that truly resonate with your Pakistani audience:

Understanding Collections

A collection is essentially a curated experience, much like the way stalls are organized by product type in traditional Pakistani markets. For example, fabrics are grouped together in Anarkali Bazaar, and electronics in Hafeez Centre.

Similarly, in your online store, collections help organize your products into distinct categories. This organization makes shopping more efficient, enabling customers to browse specifically and purposefully.

Creating Collections

Access Shopify Dashboard

• Navigate to your Shopify admin panel.
• Click on “Products” and then select “Collections.”

Add a New Collection

• Click the “Create Collection” button.
• Name your collection. For instance, if you’re selling clothing, you might have collections like “Women’s Wear,” “Men’s Wear,” “Traditional Attire,” etc.

Set Collection Conditions

You can manually add products to a collection or set up conditions to automatically include products. For instance, any product titled “kurta” can automatically be added to the “Traditional Attire” collection.

Customize Collection Image and Description

• Add a representative image for the collection. For the “Traditional Attire” collection, an image showcasing a popular Pakistani attire can be apt.
• Write a brief description, explaining what customers can expect in this collection.

Save and Preview

• After all the details are filled in, click “Save.”
• Preview the collection on your store to ensure it displays correctly.

Localization

Naming Collections

While English is widely understood in urban Pakistani regions, consider using names or terms that have local significance. For instance, instead of “Men’s Shoes,” “Mardana Jootay” can be an alternative.

Bilingual Descriptions

It’s a thoughtful touch to have bilingual collection descriptions. Begin with English and follow it up with an Urdu translation. This ensures clarity and inclusivity, catering to a broader audience segment.

Cultural Relevance

Ensure that collections align with Pakistani traditions and trends. For instance, during the month of Ramzan, a “Ramzan Special” collection featuring products relevant to the holy month can be a hit.

3.3. Adding Products

In the world of e-commerce, your product listings play a role similar to a shop’s display window in traditional markets. They give the first impression, lure customers, and influence buying decisions. 

For Pakistani businesses, especially those from industries with a significant visual appeal like textiles, it’s essential to ensure your product listings are impeccable. Here’s how:

High-Quality Listings

• Clear Images: Invest in high-resolution photography. This becomes especially crucial if you’re venturing into industries that Pakistan is renowned for, such as textiles.
• Multiple Angles: Given that products like clothing can vary in look depending on the perspective, always upload images from multiple angles. For instance, a kurta should have a front view, back view, and side view.
• Zoom into Details: One of the distinguishing features of many Pakistani products, especially textiles, is the intricate detail work. Showcase close-ups of embroidery, patterns, or any unique selling propositions. This is akin to a shopper in a traditional market feeling the texture of a fabric before purchasing.
• Use Real Models: Whenever possible, especially for clothing, use real models rather than mannequins. This gives potential buyers a realistic view of how the product might look on them.
• Descriptive Product Titles and Descriptions: Always have clear, concise titles. Follow it up with a detailed description in English, but also consider adding an Urdu translation or key terms for better clarity and reach.

Adding Product Guides

Access Shopify Dashboard

• Navigate to your Shopify admin.
• From the left-hand sidebar, click on “Products” and then “Add product.”

Product Details

• Start by entering the product title.
• Write a detailed description. Include material, size, care instructions, and any other pertinent information.

Upload Images

Click on the “Media” section then “Upload New” to update the photos of your products. Ensure you follow the tips mentioned above for quality and diversity in images.

Set Price and Inventory

• Enter the price of the product.

• If you want to track the stock of this product, fill in the inventory details, including SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) and barcode (if applicable).

Shipping Details

If the product requires shipping, ensure you provide weight and dimension details. This aids in accurate shipping cost calculations.

Product Variants

If the product comes in various sizes, colors, or other variants, click on “Add variant” and fill in the necessary details.

Assign to Collections

If you’ve already created collections (as per the previous section), assign the product to relevant collections.

Additional Settings

Use sections like “Search engine listing preview” to optimize your product’s online visibility.

Save and Review

• Once all details are filled, click “Save.”
• Preview the product listing on your store to ensure everything appears as desired.

Step 4: Registering a Domain Name

Once your Shopify store setup is underway, you can register a domain name.

Here are some critical tips to guide Pakistani businesses in choosing a domain that mirrors their brand essence while appealing to local consumers:

• Keep It Short & Memorable: Long, complex domain names can be difficult to recall and more prone to typos. Aim for a domain that’s concise, catchy, and sticks in the minds of Pakistani shoppers.
• Make It Relevant: Your domain should resonate with what you’re selling. For instance, if you’re selling traditional Pakistani crafts, a domain like “PakCrafts.pk” might be more fitting than a vague or unrelated name.
• Avoid Numbers & Hyphens: They can be misunderstood. For example, the number “5” might be typed as “five.” Similarly, hyphens can lead to typos. Stick to alphabetic characters for clarity.
• Reflect Pakistani Culture or Linguistics: Consider using Urdu phonetics or local terminologies. For instance, a domain like “BazaarOnline.pk” incorporates the familiar term ‘bazaar’ which resonates with local shopping culture.
• Check Availability on Social Media: In today’s digital age, consistent branding across all platforms is crucial. Before finalizing your domain, ensure the same name or a close variation is available on key social media platforms popular in Pakistan, like Facebook and Instagram.
• Ensure No Trademark Conflicts: Before purchasing, make sure your chosen domain doesn’t infringe on any local trademarks. This can save you legal troubles and rebranding headaches down the line.
• Opt for a ‘.pk’ or ‘.com.pk’ Extension: While ‘.com’ is universally recognized, for businesses targeting primarily Pakistani customers, a ‘.pk’ or ‘.com.pk’ extension adds a local touch and is instantly recognizable to Pakistani users.
• Avoid Slang or Trendy Terms: While it might be tempting to choose a domain that’s in vogue, trends fade. Opt for a timeless domain that won’t feel outdated in a few years.
• Use Domain Name Generators: If you’re struggling with ideas, tools like Shopify’s domain name generator can provide suggestions, which you can then tailor to suit the Pakistani market.
• Secure Variations: If budget allows, consider buying variations of your domain. This prevents competitors from purchasing similar domains and ensures customers always find their way to your site, even if they mistype.

4.3. Registration Process

Registering your domain is a straightforward process, but following the steps accurately is crucial to ensure smooth operations. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through

Domain Name Research

• As previously emphasized, choose a name that reflects your brand and resonates with Pakistani consumers.
• Utilize tools like domain name checkers to ensure your preferred domain is available.

Choose a Domain Registrar

• There are several reputable domain registrars available globally, like GoDaddy, Namecheap, and Bluehost.
• For a local touch, consider Pakistani registrars like PKNIC, which manages ‘.pk’ domain extensions.

Check Local Availability

If you’re opting for a ‘.pk’ or ‘.com.pk’ extension, ensure it’s available. Some domains might be reserved or premium, costing more than regular domains.

Register the Domain

• Once you’ve chosen the registrar and checked availability, it’s time to register. Create an account on your chosen platform.
• Add the domain to your cart, and proceed to checkout. Typically, domain names are rented on an annual basis, so you’ll need to renew them each year.

Provide Accurate Details

During registration, you’ll be prompted for specific details – name, address, email, phone number, etc. Ensure these details are accurate and up-to-date. This information is crucial for domain ownership and recovery processes.

Opt for Domain Privacy

Domain privacy (often termed WHOIS protection) shields your personal details from being publicly accessible. Given concerns about data privacy, especially in Pakistan, this is a recommended step.

Complete the Payment

• Most registrars accept international credit/debit cards. However, ensure beforehand if they accept local Pakistani payment methods if that’s your preference.
• Once payment is confirmed, you’ve successfully registered your domain!

Configure Domain Settings

After registration, you’ll have access to a dashboard on the registrar’s platform. Here, you can configure domain settings, set up email addresses associated with the domain, or redirect the domain to your Shopify store or another hosting provider.

Renewal Reminders

Domains are typically registered for a year. It’s essential to keep track of the renewal date. Most registrars send reminders, but it’s good practice for Pakistani businesses to set up their own reminders to avoid domain expiration.

Secure & Backup

Domains are valuable digital assets. Ensure you use strong, unique passwords for your registrar account. Regularly backup any associated data, especially if you’ve configured email services.

Step 5: Shopify Apps and Payment Gateways

Shopify, as a platform, is versatile and adaptable to the needs of different markets, including Pakistan. Its strength lies not just in its core functionalities but in its ability to integrate various apps and payment gateways to enhance the online shopping experience.

Apps Integration Guide

Integrating the right apps can elevate your ecommerce store’s functionality, improving not only the backend operations but also the front-end user experience.

• Navigate to the Shopify App Store: From your Shopify dashboard, click on “Apps” on the left sidebar, then select “Visit Shopify App Store.”

• Browse or Search for Apps: You can either use the search function to find specific apps or browse by categories. Given Pakistan’s e-commerce dynamics, consider apps related to customer reviews, language translation, or currency converters.
• Select and Install an App: Once you find an app that meets your requirements, click on it. Read its description, reviews, and pricing details. Click on “Install” to install it. Follow any setup instructions provided by the app developer.

• Configure the App: After installation, go to “Apps” on your Shopify dashboard. Click on the installed app to configure its settings as per your needs.
• Test the App: Before fully committing, ensure that the app functions correctly on your store. Check for any conflicts with other apps or issues in the user interface.

Payment Integration Guide

For Pakistani businesses, integrating local payment gateways that cater to local preferences, like bank transfers or COD (Cash On Delivery), is crucial.

• Navigate to Payment Providers: From your Shopify dashboard, go to “Settings” and select “Payment.”

• Choose Your Primary Payment Method: Shopify offers its own payment solution, but given regional preferences (especially in Pakistan), you might want to choose a local gateway. Click “Supported payment methods“.

• Select a Local Payment Gateway: From the list, select a gateway that’s popular and trusted in Pakistan, such as JazzCash, EasyPaisa, or any other that suits your target audience.
• Set Up the Gateway: Once selected, you’ll be prompted to provide necessary details like API keys, merchant ID, etc. Fill in these details, which you’d get after registering with the respective payment provider.
• Activate Cash On Delivery (If Needed): Given its popularity in Pakistan, consider activating COD. Under the “Manual payments” section, click “Add manual payment method” and select “Cash on Delivery.”

• Review and Test: After setting up, it’s vital to conduct a few test transactions to ensure the process is seamless and there are no hitches during checkout.