Tencent’s huge new B2B2C e-commerce platform is on course to launch in October, according to the Chinese media today. Tencent already has its own online shopping site, Paipai, but with the new platform the company will bring on-board numerous established partners to make it a challenger to Alibaba’s brand-driven TMall.

According to Chinese tech site DoNews, Tencent’s initial partners include OKBuy, 51Buy, and the online jewelers Kela.cn.

With these tie-ups, and an emphasis on B2C, it seems Tencent is aiming squarely at TMalls, as well as at Baidu’s joint-venture with Japanese online retailing giant Rakuten.cn.

Tencent had earlier stressed that its new platform would primarily cover clothing, cosmetics, and general consumer goods. With that in mind, it’s possible that future tie-ups with Walmart-backed YiHaoDian, or the catalogue-style clothing brand Vancl, might be on the cards.

I don’t believe that a name or a URL has been set for this new venture. I’ll update you closer to the launch.