Alibaba Group's e-commerce platform Taobao announced on Thursday that its free global delivery service will expand to 12 countries and regions across the globe, as the company is stepping up its globalization layout.

According to Taobao, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Australia, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia will be included in the initiative. It is the first time that Kazakhstan and Mongolia have been included in the free shipping zone.

During the June 18 shopping carnival, customers in these countries and regions will enjoy steep discounts as well as convenient return service, which allows shoppers to return unwanted items at nearby collection points.

Taobao said it will accelerate steps to expand its presence at overseas markets this year, and support merchants in exploring the international market and achieving business growth.