E-commerce, or electronic commerce, involves trading products or services through computer networks, primarily the internet, utilizing various technologies like online transaction processing and demographic data analysis. The document outlines the evolution of e-commerce from early systems in the 1970s to the rise of major platforms like Amazon and Alibaba, highlighting regulatory considerations and global trends impacting the industry. The significance of e-commerce lies in its ability to transcend geographical barriers, allowing businesses to reach a global audience effectively.