Piperlongumine (PL), a major active component of long peppers, has been reported to possess anti‑cancer properties; however, its effect on gastric cancer (GC) has remained to be demonstrated. The present study assessed the effects of PL on the MKN45 and AGS GC cell lines and explored the underlying mechanisms. An MTT assay revealed that PL suppressed the proliferation of GC cells, while flow cytometric analysis showed that PL inhibited cell cycle progression. Furthermore, Transwell assays revealed the inhibitory effects of PL on the invasion and migration of GC cells. In addition, PL reduced the phosphorylation of Janus kinase (JAK)1, JAK2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 in a concentration‑dependent manner, as indicated by western blot analysis, and decreased the expression of STAT3‑dependent tumor‑associated genes in GC cells, as revealed by PCR analysis. In conclusion, the present study was the first, to the best of our knowledge, to reveal the efficacy of PL against GC. The consumption of long peppers is therefore recommended for the prevention and treatment of GC, and PL may be a promising candidate drug for treating GC.