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1688 vs Alibaba: Which is better for African businesses sourcing from China?

Last update: September 8, 2025

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Importing goods from China is a key growth strategy for many African businesses. Whether you’re running a retail store, wholesale operation, or e-commerce venture, sourcing from Chinese suppliers can give you access to quality products at highly competitive prices.

But which platform is right for your business: 1688 or Alibaba?

Both are part of the Alibaba Group, but they serve very different needs. In this guide, we break down the key differences between 1688 and Alibaba, so you can choose the right sourcing platform for your business in Africa.

What is Alibaba?

Alibaba.com is a global B2B marketplace that connects international buyers, including businesses in Africa, with 200K suppliers from around the world (especially China). It is built for cross-border trade, offering tools for secure communication, international transactions, and global logistics.

Why Alibaba appeals to African businesses?

English interface for easy navigation
Export-ready suppliers who understand international shipping
Trade assurance for secure payments and delivery, with your funds held in escrow and released only after you confirm receipt
Over 200 million products spread across 5000+ categories
Low MOQs in many cases

For small to medium African enterprises new to global sourcing, Alibaba is a reliable and easy-to-use platform to get started. With low minimum order quantities, it’s ideal for testing new products in small batches before scaling. Plus, suppliers are experienced in handling international orders, making global shipping and customs processes much more straightforward.

What is 1688?

1688.com is Alibaba’s domestic B2B platform designed for local buyers within China. It features ultra-competitive wholesale pricing and direct factory access. But since 1688 was originally launched for domestic buyers in China, the entire platform is in Chinese and not exactly designed for international use. So placing an order on 1688 as an international buyer is not as straightforward as Alibaba.com.

Why 1688 is gaining interest in Africa:

Low factory-direct prices
Huge variety of products
Ideal for businesses that already understand the basics of international sourcing or work with local sourcing agents
Can be offer better value even after factoring in shipping and translation

African entrepreneurs who want to increase their profit margins or offer more unique products are increasingly exploring 1688 as a hidden gem.

Key differences between Alibaba and 1688

Feature	1688	Alibaba
Target audience	Primarily serves buyers in China	Global B2B platform catering to international wholesale buyers
Product pricing	Lower prices due to direct access to Chinese manufacturers and wholesalers	Competitive pricing
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)	Depends on the products, but you can find low MOQ products	Depends on the products, but you can find low MOQ products
Payment methods	The only way to make international payments is through World Pay	Supports various international payment methods (credit cards, PayPal, bank transfers)
Shipping	Only domestic shipping within China; international buyers need to arrange their own logistics or connect with suppliers to see if they can help	Offers worldwide shipping options through various logistics partners
Language support	Primarily in Chinese with limited English support; English translation is possible via web browsers	Supports English and other languages
Product range and quality	Extensive product range with varied quality, mainly focused on wholesale	Extensive product range with varied quality, catering to global markets
International dropshipping	Not available	Supports international dropshipping

How to pay 1688 suppliers in RMB with WorldFirst as the official partner

One of the biggest challenges for African businesses using 1688 has always been payments. The platform typically accepts RMB (Chinese Yuan) through local channels like Alipay or Chinese bank accounts—neither of which are accessible to most businesses outside China.

WorldFirst, the only authorised cross-border payment partner for 1688.com, enables secure, fast, and seamless international payments through World Pay, which is fully integrated into the 1688 checkout.

Here’s what WorldPay can do:

● Pay 1688 suppliers in RMB using your preferred currency

● Skip the need for a Chinese bank account

● Get fast, secure transfers at competitive FX rates

● Enjoy a smooth checkout process on 1688 via the official cross-border channel

Whether you’re sourcing electronics from Shenzhen or fashion accessories from Guangzhou, WorldFirst makes it possible to buy like a local, even from across the continent

In summary, select 1688 if:

● You want access to low prices directly from Chinese factories

● You or your team can navigate the Chinese language or work with a sourcing agent

● You’re confident in handling your own freight or you’re working with a freight forwarder

● You’re scaling up and want stronger control over margins and product variety

Choose the right B2B marketplace for your business

Both 1688 and Alibaba offer valuable opportunities for African businesses sourcing from China. The right choice depends on your goals, experience, and sourcing strategy.

Use Alibaba if you’re just starting out and need an easier way to source with built-in buyer protection and English support. Choose 1688 if you’re scaling up, want factory pricing, and can manage sourcing complexity on your own. Either way, WorldFirst helps you pay securely–through World Pay on 1688 or with a World Card on Alibaba.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute any advice. Before acting on the information you should consider whether it is appropriate for you, in light of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Whilst the information has been obtained from and is based upon multiple sources we believe to be reliable, we make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information. WorldFirst shall not be responsible for any losses or damages arising from your reliance of such information.