In 2025, when global supply chains are evolving and e-commerce has become a lifeline for businesses worldwide, 1688.com, the Chinese wholesale marketplace under the Alibaba Group, continues to draw attention. Whether you’re a dropshipper, importer, or small business owner looking for cost-effective sourcing, understanding how 1688.com works in 2025—and how it’s affected by US-China tariffs—has become crucial.
This review will explore the site’s features, benefits, challenges, and the latest shifts in international trade policies that may impact your buying decisions. We’ll also analyze how the new US tariffs affect 1688 suppliers and international buyers, including those based in India, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Table of Contents
🔍 What Is 1688.com?
1688.com (pronounced “yi liu ba ba”) is China’s largest B2B wholesale e-commerce platform, launched by Alibaba Group. While Alibaba.com targets international buyers, 1688.com is designed for the Chinese domestic market, offering lower prices and bulk order options.
🎯 Key Details at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Website URL | https://www.1688.com |
| Ownership | Alibaba Group |
| Target Market | Domestic China (used internationally too) |
| Primary Language | Chinese (Mandarin) |
| Business Model | B2B (Wholesale only) |
| Account Requirement | Mandatory for purchase |
| Payment Options | Alipay, WeChat Pay, Bank Transfer |
| Shipping | Domestic & Freight Forwarders Required |
📈 Why 1688.com Gained Popularity Globally
Though it’s a Chinese domestic site, international users—including Indians, Americans, and Europeans—use 1688.com to source cheaper products than Alibaba or AliExpress. But what’s the secret?
- Lower Wholesale Prices: Sellers on 1688.com are mostly factories or manufacturers.
- Wider Product Range: From gadgets to textiles and customized packaging.
- Custom Manufacturing Options: OEM and ODM services for brand owners.
- Bulk Order Discounts: Great for resellers and e-commerce sellers.
💡 Did You Know?
Many Alibaba or AliExpress sellers buy from 1688.com and sell at higher prices globally. Using 1688.com cuts out the middleman—if you can navigate the language barrier and manage shipping.
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🌐 Language Barrier & Site Usability in 2025
One of the biggest limitations remains the language—1688.com is entirely in Mandarin, and customer service typically does not support English.
However, 2025 has brought tech-friendly solutions:
| Feature | 2020 Status | 2025 Update |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome Translation | Manual, slow | Real-time AI-enhanced translations |
| Google Lens for Screenshots | Limited accuracy | Improved OCR and live translation |
| 1688 App Support (Non-Chinese) | Not available | Still limited; third-party apps popular |
| Alipay/WeChat for Non-Chinese IDs | Complex setup | Easier through verified agents or freelancers |
🚚 Shipping: Not as Straightforward
1688.com sellers do not offer international shipping by default. You’ll need to:
- Use a Chinese freight forwarder
- Find a third-party agent
- Use consolidation warehouses
✈ Shipping Options Breakdown:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Freight Forwarder | Bulk friendly, secure | Language barrier, setup complexity |
| 3rd-Party Agents | English support, easier transactions | Additional cost, trust issues |
| Consolidated Warehouses | Combine items from multiple sellers | May delay delivery time |
💰 Pricing Advantage – Real or Hype?
Most users turn to 1688.com for one reason: ultra-low prices. But not all that glitters is gold.
Here’s a cost comparison between 1688.com and Alibaba.com in 2025:
| Product | Avg. Price on 1688.com | Avg. Price on Alibaba.com | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Earbuds (MOQ 50) | $3.20/pair | $5.00/pair | 37% cheaper |
| Cotton T-Shirts (MOQ 100) | $1.25/shirt | $2.10/shirt | Better for bulk orders |
| Power Banks (MOQ 100) | $4.50/unit | $6.80/unit | Lower price, same quality |
Savings can range from 20–50%. But remember: you’ll pay for translation help, payment processing, and logistics, which can eat into your profit.
🌎 1688.com vs Global Dropshipping Platforms
How does 1688 compare with more user-friendly sites like Temu, AliExpress, or CJ Dropshipping?
| Factor | 1688.com | Temu | AliExpress | CJ Dropshipping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Lowest (factory price) | Retail price | Retail price | Moderate |
| MOQ | High | None | None | Low |
| International Shipping | Not provided | Included | Included | Provided (slow) |
| Language Support | Chinese only | Multilingual | Multilingual | English support |
| Custom Branding | Available | Not available | Not available | Yes |
Verdict: 1688 is best for serious importers, not ideal for casual or beginner-level e-commerce sellers.
🧾 How the 2025 US Tariffs Affect 1688 Buyers
2025 has seen a renewed wave of US tariffs on Chinese goods, especially tech, electronics, and textiles. The Biden administration extended tariffs on over $300B worth of Chinese imports in early 2025.
⚠ Impact on 1688.com Users:
| Tariff Area | Affected Product Category | Tariff Rate (2025) | Impact on 1688.com Buyers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer Electronics | Power banks, headphones | 25% | Cost increase on electronics |
| Apparel & Textiles | T-shirts, caps, tote bags | 15% | Higher landing cost in USA |
| Toys & Plastic Goods | Kids toys, home storage | 10% | Price-sensitive buyers impacted |
| Tools & Home Hardware | Hand tools, LED lights | 20% | Drop in demand from US buyers |
These tariffs don’t apply to India, EU, or other nations, which is why 1688’s popularity is surging in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
🛠️ Using 1688 in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide for Global Buyers
Here’s how to use 1688 efficiently even if you’re outside China:
Step 1: Browse with Chrome + Translation Extensions
Install Chrome’s Real-Time Translation, or use Google Lens to scan screenshots on your phone.
Step 2: Use Verified 1688 Agents
Trusted agents can help with communication, payments, and logistics. Examples: CNE Global, Superbuy, Basetao.
Step 3: Set Up Alipay or Use Escrow Services
In 2025, third-party services offer prepaid Alipay balances or Escrow payments to secure your transaction.
Step 4: Arrange International Shipping
Choose freight forwarders like SF Express, Yun Express, or opt for DHL via local warehouses.
💬 Real User Experiences in 2025
Positive:
“We’ve moved 60% of our sourcing from Alibaba to 1688, saving 35% on average. With our freight agent handling logistics, it’s now scalable.”
– Rahul, Delhi-based importer
Negative:
“Language issues are still real. I ordered 100 hoodies, but the color mix was off. Took 3 weeks to resolve through the agent.”
– Emily, California-based Etsy seller
🧠 Pros & Cons of 1688.com in 2025
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Factory-direct pricing | Language barrier (still no English support) |
| Wide variety of suppliers | No direct international shipping |
| Custom manufacturing (OEM/ODM) | Payment setup is still complicated |
| Large product range in every category | US buyers face added costs due to tariffs |
| Useful for bulk sourcing & private labels | Refund/return policies not standardized internationally |
📌 Final Verdict: Is 1688.com Worth It in 2025?
Yes, but with caveats.
1688.com is a goldmine for bulk buyers, private label businesses, and experienced importers. If you’re comfortable navigating agents, Chinese UI, and freight logistics, it can save you up to 40% compared to Alibaba.
But casual sellers, new e-commerce startups, or dropshippers should approach with caution, especially from tariff-affected countries like the US.
With proper planning and the right agent, 1688.com can still be your secret weapon for scaling product-based businesses in 2025.
📚 FAQs
Q1. Can international buyers use 1688.com in 2025?
Yes, with the help of agents and freight forwarders.
Q2. Is 1688.com cheaper than Alibaba in 2025?
Yes, as it lists factory prices for the domestic market.
Q3. Are US tariffs affecting 1688.com purchases in 2025?
Yes, especially in electronics, apparel, and tools categories.
Q4. Is 1688.com safe to use for bulk sourcing?
Yes, if you use trusted agents and verify supplier credentials.