Chinese printing portal Keyin.cn, which operates under the China Academy of Printing Technology, released a list of the country's top 20 e-commerce printing websites in April 2014.

"We can expect more customized printing e-commerce platforms as social media and online-sharing technologies develop," Keyin.cn's report said.

"But now most such Chinese sites lack distinctive products. They're too similar and all want to cover the 'complete' range."

Two sites were cited as examples in targeting niche markets.

Puffant.com focuses on postcards, while Weiyin.cc focuses on photo books with pictures and words users can publish on social media.

Yet, despite 2014's development obstacles, online customized printing expects to do even better this year.