The document provides an introduction to e-commerce, including definitions, types, advantages, prerequisites and business models. It discusses different types of e-commerce transactions based on who is buying/selling (B2B, B2C, etc.) and different types of goods that can be sold online (physical products, virtual products, services, subscriptions). Key statistics on the growth of e-commerce are presented. Advantages of e-commerce for both customers and merchants are outlined. Steps for launching an online store are mentioned.