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Global Sources Cookie Policy
Cookie Policy

1. Overview

This Cookie Policy describes the different types of cookies and related technologies (collectively, “Cookies”) that may be used on our websites and applications, for which Global Sources acts as the data controller.

We use Cookies for the following purposes:
– To make the site function properly and enable you to use the services we provide.
– To remember your preferences and make the site easier to use.
– To collect information about how you use our site, then anonymize it to help us improve our services—these are commonly described as analytical cookies.
– To gather information about topics you are interested in and use that information to deliver content on our site and other sites.

We aim to provide clear and comprehensive information via this Cookie Policy about the Cookies we use and how to refuse or block them. Some Cookies are essential for our site’s operation; others are not. Choosing to refuse or block certain Cookies may affect site functionality. We want to be transparent about our use of Cookies and help you make informed choices.

As our site evolves, we will review and update this policy to include details of any newly applied Cookies. Please check the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page for the most recent revision.

Please note that we process your data on servers and storage facilities located in Hong Kong, and where Cookies and similar technologies collect personal information, our Privacy Policy provisions apply in addition to this Cookie Policy.

2. Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, or need assistance regarding Cookies, please contact us by:

Emailing our Customer Service or Data Protection Officer.

3. What Are “Cookies”?

Browser Cookies (also called HTTP Cookies)

Browser Cookies are small text files containing data that our site sends to your browser and stores on your device (computer, tablet, or smartphone). Our web servers can read and retrieve this data to customize pages and services for you. We use Cookies to make our site informative, personalized, and to provide you with a great experience—Cookies help us improve our services toward this goal.

There are several types of browser Cookies:

  • First-party: Set by the site you visit. Most browsers allow first-party Cookies by default. Disabling first-party Cookies may prevent certain site features—for example, adding multiple items to a shopping cart in one session.
  • Third-party: Managed by services other than the site you visit. These may support analytics, advertising, or social media features. Refer to those third parties’ own policies to learn how they use your data.
  • Session Cookies: Temporary Cookies deleted when you close your browser (though mobile browsers may delay deletion). They support site functionality and usage analysis.
  • Persistent Cookies: Remain on your device after closing the browser, until they expire or you delete them. Used to store preferences, visit frequency, and advertising effectiveness over time.

4. Web Beacons

Web beacons (also called transparent GIFs or pixel tags) are tiny images or code snippets placed in online services or emails that contain unique identifiers. They allow us (and/or third parties) to detect user visits and actions. These are often used with Cookies to measure response to communications and to improve services and promotions.

5. Embedded Scripts

Embedded scripts are programming code designed to collect information about your interaction with the service (e.g., links you click). The code is temporarily downloaded to your device from Global Sources or a third-party provider and activated during your session.

6. Local Shared Objects (LSOs) and Local Storage

Flash Cookies (Local Shared Objects): We may use Flash Cookies for certain animations. They function like regular Cookies—storing settings, preferences, and usage data—but use different technology. Clearing browser Cookies might not remove Flash Cookies. See Adobe’s documentation for removal instructions.

HTML5 Local Storage and Caching: HTML5 local storage allows services to store and read information on your device for enhanced functionality.

7. Our Use of Cookies

We use Cookies on our websites and mobile apps for multiple reasons:

  • Strictly Necessary Cookies: Essential for site operation (e.g., login status, cart functionality). Without them, core features will not function.
  • Performance Cookies: Collect aggregated, anonymous data on site usage to help us understand visitor behavior, monitor performance, and improve user experience.
  • Functionality Cookies: Remember your preferences (language, display) and enhance personalization. Disabling them may impair certain features.
  • Targeting/Advertising Cookies: Enable us and partners to deliver relevant ads based on your interests, prevent repetitive ads, and support social sharing via third-party platforms.

8. Managing Cookies

You may wish to control or opt out of Cookies, but disabling them may affect site functionality and user experience.

1. Browser Cookies

  • You can configure your browser to accept or refuse all or some Cookies.
  • You can set your browser to warn you before a Cookie is set.
  • You can delete stored Cookies at any time via your browser settings.
  • Check your browser’s “Help” section for instructions on managing Cookies.

For more info, visit your browser’s official support pages.

2. Flash Cookies

See Adobe’s Flash Player privacy and security documentation.

3. HTML5 Local Storage

Block or delete HTML5 local storage via browser settings. Disabling it may affect site features.

4. Web Beacons & Embedded Scripts

Often used with Cookies; blocking Cookies may impact their functionality.

5. Google Analytics Opt-Out

You can opt out of Google Analytics via the provided link, which sets an opt-out Cookie, or install the browser add-on to block data collection. See Google’s documentation for details.

9. Third-Party Cookies – Additional Details

Below are the third-party Cookie services used on our site, with links to their privacy and Cookie policies.

1. Advertising

  • Bing Ads:
    Tracks conversions via pixels on Bing and Yahoo! Ads.
    See Microsoft Privacy Policy and Dashboard.
  • DoubleClick (Google):
    Manages ad campaigns and reporting.
    See how Google uses Cookies.
  • Google AdWords & Remarketing:
    Delivers ads based on keywords and visitor interests.
    See Google’s Cookie policy.
  • Yahoo Analytics & Dot Tag (Oath):
    Tracks and optimizes display and native ads.
    See Oath Cookie policy and Analytics.

2. Analytics

  • Google Analytics:
    Tracks website traffic and user interactions to improve UX.
    See Google Analytics and Opt-Out tool.
  • Sensors Data SDK:
    Records pages visited and browsing behavior to build anonymous profiles.
    See Sensors Data Privacy Policy.

3. Functionality

  • Certona:
    Anonymous cookie for personalized recommendations.
    See Certona Privacy Policy.
  • Google Tag Manager:
    Manages tags and scripts for analytics and marketing.
    See Google Tag Manager policy.
  • Google Maps:
    Tracks map usage.
    See Google’s Cookie policy.

4. Social Media

  • Facebook Pixel & Custom Audiences:
    Measures ad performance and builds audience lists.
    See Facebook Ads settings.
  • LinkedIn Insight Tag:
    Tracks conversions and builds retargeting audiences.
    See LinkedIn Cookie policy.
  • YouTube:
    Embeds videos which may set YouTube Cookies.
    See Google’s Cookie policy.

5. Other Sites

  • PayPal:
    Redirects to PayPal for payment, which may set Cookies.
    See PayPal Privacy Policy.
  • Escrow.com:
    Redirects to Escrow.com for payment, which may set Cookies.
    See Escrow.com Legal.
  • Tencent Chat:
    Transfers chat function to Tencent system, which may set Cookies.

10. Further Reading

Last Updated: February 19, 2025 (Version 1.5)