Alibaba is a huge fan of the B2B business model. The eCommerce conglomerate, which has overhauled China’s B2C online shopping industry, has launched several initiatives within the B2B market, including partnerships in other Asian economies to launch wholesale eCommerce services in Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. The company has also fostered B2B eCommerce startups through its competition recently held in Hong Kong to promote innovation and progress in the industry.When Alibaba founder Jack Ma spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit to the country earlier this year, the firm reportedly discussed the strength of the B2B online commerce business model and the potential for various markets, including India and China. Not only does B2B align with government regulations, but it also supports SMEs more than the traditional B2C model, Mareportedly said.But the Chinese company’s latest venture could be its loudest endorsement of B2B business to date. Reports said that Alibaba revealed via an emailed statement Wednesday (May 6) that it is launching a new operation that uses the B2B business model to offer cheaper imports into China. The impact, experts say, could have widespread implications for cross-border commerce around the globe.