Economic Efficiency of the Channel Mix in the e-Commerce of Romanian Local and 3D Printed Products

Local and 3D-printed products face the dual challenge of embodying cultural or creative value while competing in increasingly globalized and digital marketplaces. This paper investigates the most economically advantageous channels for Romanian makers to promote such products internationally. Using official statistics from Eurostat, UNCTAD, ITC/UN Comtrade, Etsy investor relations, Shopify, Amazon Handmade, MyMiniFactory, and TikTok Shop, we benchmark the relative benefits and risks of marketplaces, proprietary stores, and social commerce. The analysis shows that a hybrid, multi-channel mix, combining discovery platforms such as Etsy or MyMiniFactory with scalable infrastructures like Amazon Handmade, proprietary Shopify stores, and social-commerce channels such as TikTok Shop offers the highest economic efficiency for Romanian makers. This combination maximizes exposure while preserving margins and brand control. The findings suggest that coordinated national and EU support for digital skills and cross-border logistics would further enhance the competitiveness of Romanian local and 3D-printed products.