Shopping on Temu can feel like playing an arcade game. Instead of using a joystick-controlled claw to grab a toy, visitors to the online marketplace maneuver their computer mouses or cellphone screens to browse colorful gadgets,

Chinese e-commerce platforms Temu and Shein are outperforming Western retailers, using social media and a wide range of affordable goods to lure consumers.

Despite criticism about the platforms, Shein and Temu see rise in consumer purchases. Shopping on Temu can feel like playing an arcade game. Instead of using a joystick-controlled claw to grab a toy,