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Alibaba vs. 1688: Which Platform is Best for Amazon Sellers?
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If you’re an Amazon seller in need of sourcing from China, chances are you’ve heard of Alibaba and 1688. Though both websites are heavy hitters when it comes to global sourcing, they appeal to different users and have unique benefits and limitations. In this article, we’ll compare the similarities and differences between Alibaba and 1688 and determine which platform is best for your Amazon business.
Understanding the Platforms
Alibaba.com
- Audience: International
- Language: English
- Suppliers: Exporting Chinese manufacturers and trading houses
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Generally higher but negotiable
- Payment methods: Alibaba Trade Assurance, PayPal, credit card, bank transfer
Alibaba is designed with foreign buyers in mind. It’s an easy-to-use, English-language site with a huge variety of products. Most suppliers here are trading houses or manufacturers with experience in international logistics, compliance regulations, and large order handling.
1688.com
- Audience: Domestic Chinese market
- Language: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Suppliers: Primarily domestic factories and wholesalers
- MOQ: Usually significantly lower than Alibaba
- Payment options: Alipay, domestic bank cards, very limited international options
1688 is owned by the Alibaba Group but caters to China’s domestic wholesale market. It’s famous for very low prices and access to local factories in their thousands. It’s all Chinese, though, and not for foreign buyers.
Price Comparison: Who's Cheaper?
Overall, 1688 beats out 1688 on price. Because it’s for the Chinese domestic market, there’s less markup and no “export premium.” Most Amazon sellers find that the very same products they see on Alibaba can be had for 20-50% cheaper on 1688.
But lower cost isn’t always better. With 1688, you’ll probably need a Chinese sourcing agent or translator, and international shipping isn’t included like it is on Alibaba.
Quality and Reliability
- Alibaba: Offers vetted suppliers, international certifications (CE, FCC, FDA), and buyer protections like Trade Assurance.
- 1688: Quality control is possible but more variable, and communication is harder due to language and lack of export experience.
- If you’re new to sourcing or dealing with higher-risk categories (e.g., electronics, health products), Alibaba is generally safer and easier to manage.
Shipping & Logistics
Alibaba suppliers are typically familiar with Amazon FBA requirements and can offer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping directly to Amazon warehouses. Many will also label and package your products according to Amazon’s standards.
1688 suppliers usually don’t offer international shipping or FBA preparation. You’ll need to hire a third-party logistics (3PL) provider or a sourcing agent to handle product inspection, labeling, and international freight.
Ease of Use
- Alibaba: Made for international buyers. You can communicate in English, pay with foreign cards, and usually receive detailed product descriptions and MOQs.
- 1688: Chinese only. You’ll require translation software or an agent, and the site can be hard to use for non-Chinese speakers.
When to Use Alibaba
✅ You’re new to sourcing from China
✅ You don’t know Chinese
✅ You require FBA-compliant packaging and shipping
✅ You’re making big orders or need supplier protections
When to Use 1688
✅ You have a sourcing agent or speak Chinese
✅ You need the lowest possible product cost
✅ You’re testing small batch/private label products
✅ You intend to establish direct relationships with factories
Pro Tip: Combine the Best of Both
Most veteran Amazon sellers utilize 1688 to source lower-cost products and then use a sourcing agent or 3PL to perform quality checks, labeling, and shipping to Amazon warehouses. Others begin on Alibaba and then move to 1688 once they’ve proven a product and wish to scale profitably.
Final Verdict: Alibaba vs. 1688
| Feature | Alibaba | 1688 |
|---|---|---|
| Language | English | Chinese (Mandarin) |
| Ideal for | International sellers | Domestic (China) buyers |
| Product cost | Higher | Lower |
| Supplier experience | High (export ready) | Varies |
| Amazon FBA readiness | Yes | No (requires agent/3PL) |
| Ease of use | Very user-friendly | Difficult for foreigners |
Conclusion
- Choose Alibaba if you’re starting out or want a simplified experience.
- Choose 1688 if you want the best prices and are ready to handle sourcing complexities.