JD.com Enables The Enterprise To Create Its Own Blockchain Apps

China’s largest retailer, JD.com, has announced a new blockchain technology platform that will allow enterprise customers to build, host and use their own blockchain applications.

The JD Blockchain Open Platform, a Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform, allows customers to simplify operational procedures, including “tracking and tracing the movement of goods and charity donations, authenticity certification, property assessment, transaction settlements, digital copyrights and enhance productivity.” The platform is also designed with “one-click deployment” so it can be used by companies that don’t have the ability to develop their own blockchain solutions.

“JD Blockchain Open Platform is a culmination of the expertise and experience in blockchain technology that we initially developed for our own operations, to provide more visibility to consumers,” said Jian Pei, VP of Big Data and smart supply chain at JD.com, in a press release. “As we continue to open our technology and infrastructure up to other companies, we are pleased to have [China Pacific Insurance Company (CPIC)] as our first blockchain platform customer.”

In addition, the platform offers an app store with “multiple blockchain bottom layers, tools and software that are developed in-house and by Independent Software Vendors (ISV).” The company will continue to add new applications through the introduction of additional ISV, as well as through the creation of an ISV community.

CPIC has become the first partner to use the platform, deploying a traceable system for eInvoices (also known as “fapiao,” the official receipts required for business in China).

“JD is an innovator in its field, and we are confident [that] its blockchain eInvoice system will create greater efficiency in our operations,” said Yanhong Pan, VP and CFO of CPIC. “Blockchain technology is transforming the way companies do business, and we are pleased to have found a great partner in JD to guide and help us along the way.”