GLOBAL e-tailer Amazon.com said it will begin operating out of the Shanghai free trade zone to better penetrate the greater China market, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The deal signed with authorities in the free trade zone allows Amazon to open the company's global platforms to Chinese consumers, enabling them to import bags and books normally available for delivery only in other countries.

In a separate statement Shanghai municipal authorities also said Amazon also will open a logistics warehouse to expand exports of goods from Chinese companies.