AliExpress was once the go-to platform for Indian dropshippers and budget-conscious online sellers, offering a vast range of low-cost products with global shipping. However, in 2020, the Indian government banned AliExpress along with several other Chinese apps, citing national security concerns. This move left a major gap in the market, pushing entrepreneurs to search for trustworthy alternatives.
Today, Indian dropshippers are looking for reliable, fast-shipping platforms that integrate well with Shopify or WooCommerce, offer competitive pricing, and support the local market better. This guide is crafted for Indian eCommerce sellers, side hustlers, and aspiring dropshippers who want to find the best AliExpress alternatives n India and beyond it, that work seamlessly.
What is AliExpress dropshipping?
AliExpress is a popular online retail marketplace owned by the Alibaba Group, based in China. It connects buyers around the world directly with manufacturers and sellers, mainly from China and other countries, offering a huge variety of products at competitive prices.
AliExpress is especially popular for its wide range of products from electronics, fashion, and home goods to gadgets and accessories often available at lower prices than local stores. Many small businesses and individual buyers use AliExpress for dropshipping because it allows direct shipping from sellers to customers worldwide.
However, since most products ship internationally, delivery times can be long, and product quality can sometimes be inconsistent.
Why Look for AliExpress Alternatives?
1. India’s Restrictions on Chinese Apps (Including AliExpress)
Due to rising concerns over data security and geopolitical tensions, the Indian government has imposed bans and restrictions on many Chinese apps. This affects the accessibility and usability of platforms like AliExpress for Indian consumers and sellers, making it harder to rely on them as a stable marketplace.
2. Long Shipping Times and Inconsistent Quality
AliExpress primarily ships products from China, which often results in long delivery times, sometimes weeks or even months. Additionally, product quality can vary significantly between sellers, leading to inconsistent customer experiences and dissatisfaction.
3. Lack of Local Fulfillment and Return Options
Since AliExpress lacks fulfillment centers or warehouses within India, returns and refunds become complicated and time-consuming. The absence of local warehouses means customers cannot easily return defective or unwanted items, causing frustration and lowering trust.
4. Need for Faster, More Trusted Options in the Indian Market
Indian consumers and sellers increasingly demand faster delivery, better product quality, and reliable customer service. This has led to a growing need for local or regional alternatives to AliExpress that can offer quicker shipping, better quality control, and simpler return processes, all of which improve overall trust and satisfaction.
What to Look for in a Good AliExpress Alternative
1.Indian Supplier Network or Global Shipping to India
A reliable alternative should have either a strong network of Indian suppliers or efficient global shipping options specifically optimized for India. This ensures faster delivery times, lower shipping costs, and better compliance with local regulations.
2. Dropshipping-Friendly Model
The platform should support dropshipping, meaning sellers can ship products directly to customers without needing to buy inventory in bulk upfront. This is crucial for small businesses and startups looking to minimize upfront investment and manage inventory risks.
3. Platform Integrations (Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.)
Good alternatives should easily integrate with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and others. This makes it seamless for online store owners to import products, manage orders, and automate fulfillment, saving time and reducing errors
4. Competitive Pricing and Trending Products
To stay profitable and appealing to customers, the platform must offer competitive prices and a wide range of trending, in-demand products. This helps sellers attract buyers with affordable prices and up-to-date offerings.
5. Local Warehousing and Faster Delivery
Having local warehouses or fulfillment centers in India significantly cuts down delivery times. Faster shipping enhances customer satisfaction and builds trust, which is critical for growing an online business.
Aliexpress Alternatives for dropshipping
Overview:
Qikink is an India-based dropshipping platform specializing in customized apparel and accessories. It offers entrepreneurs and small businesses the ability to sell personalized products like t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and phone cases without holding inventory. Qikink manages the entire backend process like printing, packaging, and shipping, allowing sellers to focus on designing and marketing their products.
Pros:
- Local production: Reduces shipping time and costs within India, improving customer satisfaction.
- No inventory holding: Sellers do not need to invest upfront in stock or worry about unsold items.
- High-quality products: Use of premium materials and reliable print technology enhances product appeal.
- Dedicated customer support: India-based support team helps resolve seller and customer issues efficiently.
Best For:
- Entrepreneurs, artists, and small Indian businesses focusing on selling customized merchandise without upfront investment.
- Social media influencers or small retailers who want to expand product offerings with minimal risk.
Integration/Support:
- Integrates smoothly with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify and WooCommerce.
- Provides onboarding assistance and ongoing seller support through chat, email, and tutorials.
2.Baapstore
Overview:
Baapstore is a ready-made dropshipping store solution for Indian entrepreneurs, offering fully managed eCommerce stores with product sourcing, fulfillment, and marketing tools included. It enables users to launch their own online store without technical skills or inventory.
Key Features:
- Turnkey eCommerce stores: Pre-built websites with integrated supplier support.
- Automatic order processing: Products are shipped directly to customers.
- Branded store options: Sellers can operate under their own brand name.
- Marketing and training: Includes tools and guidance for promotion and scaling.
Pros:
- Zero inventory and logistics hassle.
- Professional store setup done for you.
- Branding and customization available.
- Indian supplier integration for local market suitability.
Cons:
- High initial setup cost compared to self-managed models.
- Limited control over supplier-side operations and stock accuracy.
Best for:
- Entrepreneurs looking for a fully managed dropshipping business in India.
- Beginners who want a branded online store without handling backend operations.
Integration/Support:
- Built-in payment gateways and shipping integrations.
- Dedicated support, training, and digital marketing assistance included.
3. Shop101
Overview:
Shop101 is a mobile-first eCommerce platform designed for entrepreneurs and small sellers to create their own online stores easily and sell products primarily through social media channels like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. It’s optimized for social selling and caters mostly to beginners.
Key Features:
- Mobile-based store creation: Sellers can create a customized online store via an intuitive mobile app, requiring no technical expertise.
- Automated order and inventory management: The platform automates order processing, inventory tracking, and notifications, reducing manual effort.
- Product catalog: Offers a wide variety of products including fashion apparel, electronics, accessories, and lifestyle items.
- Social media integration: Enables sharing products and managing sales directly through popular social platforms.
- Payment and shipping management: Handles payment collections and shipping logistics, simplifying the selling process.
Pros:
- Very beginner-friendly, suitable for first-time sellers.
- Encourages social selling, leveraging India’s vast WhatsApp and Facebook user base.
- No upfront investment or inventory management needed.
- Supportive tutorials and customer service available.
Cons:
- Limited options for product customization or branding, sellers primarily resell existing products.
- Smaller scale and product variety compared to large marketplaces like Amazon or Flipkart.
- Less suited for sellers wanting full control over the product catalog or unique inventory.
Best For:
- New entrepreneurs leveraging social media for sales.
- Small sellers aiming to build a quick, mobile-based online presence.
- Individuals who prefer simple store management without upfront costs.
Integration/Support:
- Mobile app with step-by-step tutorials.
- Customer support through chat and email.
- Integrations focused on social selling channels rather than traditional eCommerce platforms.
4. IndiaMART
Overview:
IndiaMART is the largest B2B marketplace in India, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and wholesalers with buyers primarily for bulk purchases. It’s ideal for businesses looking to source raw materials, industrial products, or large quantities of goods.
Key Features:
- Extensive supplier directory: Millions of verified suppliers across various categories.
- Multiple product categories: Industrial machinery, construction materials, consumer goods, electronics, textiles, and more.
- Supplier verification: Ensures credibility and reliability of sellers.
- Lead generation: Tools to connect buyers with suppliers efficiently.
Pros:
- Access to a huge supplier network with diverse products.
- Trusted platform for bulk and wholesale purchasing.
- Facilitates large-scale procurement with negotiation and sourcing tools.
Cons:
- Not designed for dropshipping or direct-to-consumer sales.
- Bulk order focus means small sellers or individual customers may find it less suitable.
- Complex for beginners unfamiliar with B2B buying processes.
Best For:
- Businesses and retailers sourcing products in bulk.
- Manufacturers looking to find raw materials or partners.
- Entrepreneurs establishing supplier relationships.
Integration/Support:
- Web platform with detailed supplier and buyer dashboards.
- Lead generation and business support tools.
- Customer service via phone and email.
5. TradeIndia
Overview:
TradeIndia operates similarly to IndiaMART as a large B2B marketplace, connecting suppliers and buyers across India, focusing on bulk and wholesale trade.
Key Features:
- Large supplier and manufacturer database.
- Supplier verification to ensure quality and reliability.
- Multiple industry categories including agriculture, electronics, textiles, and machinery.
Pros:
- Wide access to verified suppliers.
- Useful for bulk sourcing and industrial purchases.
Cons:
- Bulk order preference limits suitability for retail or dropshipping models.
- May have a steeper learning curve for new users.
Best For:
- Businesses looking to source raw materials or products wholesale.
- Companies seeking reliable supplier relationships.
Integration/Support:
- Web-based platform with customer service.
- Supplier verification and lead management tools.
Overview:
SaleHoo is a global wholesale and dropshipping directory, connecting sellers with verified suppliers and providing market research and educational resources.
Key Features:
- Directory of 8,000+ verified suppliers worldwide.
- Market research and trend analysis tools.
- Educational resources for sellers at all levels.
Pros:
- Trusted supplier network with quality control.
- Useful tools for product research and business growth.
- Supports both wholesale and dropshipping models.
Cons:
- Requires a membership fee.
- Mostly international suppliers, may affect shipping times.
Best For:
- Dropshippers and wholesalers seeking reliable suppliers.
- Sellers looking for market insights and supplier vetting.
Integration/Support:
- Web platform with strong customer service and learning materials.
Overview:
Spocket connects sellers with suppliers from the US and EU, offering faster shipping and branded packaging options ideal for quality-conscious sellers targeting Western markets.
Key Features:
- High-quality suppliers mainly from the US and Europe.
- Fast shipping with branded invoicing and packaging.
- Integrations with Shopify, WooCommerce, and other platforms.
Pros:
- Reliable shipping times and product quality.
- Brand-building opportunities with custom packaging.
- Smooth platform integrations.
Cons:
- Product prices tend to be higher than China-based alternatives.
- Smaller product variety limited to certain niches.
Best For:
- Sellers targeting customers in the US/EU wanting fast delivery.
- Brands focusing on premium customer experience.
Integration/Support:
- Shopify and WooCommerce integration.
- Responsive customer support.
Overview:
Banggood is a China-based online marketplace offering a wide product range including electronics, gadgets, and lifestyle products, with a dropshipping program and multiple warehouses worldwide.
Key Features:
- Diverse product catalog.
- Multiple warehouses for faster shipping.
- Dropshipping support with shipment tracking.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing.
- Broad product range.
- Suitable for sellers wanting low-cost sourcing.
Cons:
- Shipping times to India can sometimes be slow.
- Product quality can vary across suppliers.
Best For:
- Sellers needing diverse product options at competitive prices.
- Dropshippers focused on gadgets and lifestyle products.
Integration/Support:
- API integrations available.
- Customer support for sellers.
Overview:
Gearbest specializes in consumer electronics and gadgets, offering dropshipping with branding options and global shipping from multiple warehouses.
Key Features:
- Focus on tech products and gadgets.
- Dropshipping with branding and packaging options.
- Multiple warehouses to speed delivery.
Pros:
- Specialized product range.
- Branding opportunities for sellers.
- Suitable for tech-focused sellers.
Cons:
- Limited product niches.
- Mainly targets electronics buyers.
Best For:
- Sellers focusing on tech and gadgets.
- Dropshippers wanting brand control.
Integration/Support:
- Platform integrations.
- Seller support services.
Overview:
DHgate is a Chinese wholesale marketplace with dropshipping options, providing a large supplier network and buyer protection programs.
Key Features:
- Wholesale and dropshipping available.
- Large variety of products across categories.
- Buyer protection for security.
Pros:
- Extensive supplier network.
- Competitive pricing.
- Good for bulk and dropshipping.
Cons:
- Shipping times and product quality can vary.
- More suitable for experienced importers.
Best For:
- Sellers sourcing bulk or dropshipping from China.
- Import/export businesses.
Integration/Support:
- API integration.
- Customer service support.
Overview:
Newegg is a specialized marketplace focused on electronics, computer hardware, and related tech products.
Key Features:
- Marketplace for tech-savvy customers.
- Seller marketplace model allowing third-party sellers.
Pros:
- Strong tech-focused user base.
- Good platform for electronics sellers.
Cons:
- Limited product categories outside tech.
- Smaller scale compared to general marketplaces.
Best For:
- Sellers focusing on electronics and computer hardware.
- Tech niche specialists.
Integration/Support:
- Integration with eCommerce tools.
- Seller support and resources.
Overview:
LightInTheBox is a global marketplace offering a wide variety of products including fashion, home goods, and electronics, with dropshipping and custom branding options.
Key Features:
- Diverse product categories.
- Dropshipping with branding support.
- International shipping.
Pros:
- Wide product range.
- Branding and customization options.
- Suitable for international sellers.
Cons:
- Shipping times can be slower depending on destination.
- Variable product quality.
Best For:
- Sellers seeking variety and international reach.
- Dropshippers wanting branding capabilities.
Integration/Support:
- API integrations.
- Customer service and support for sellers.
Overview:
Craftsvilla is a niche marketplace specializing in ethnic, handmade, and artisanal products. It connects artisans and sellers of ethnic wear, jewelry, and crafts with customers interested in authentic and traditional goods.
Key Features:
- Curated collections of ethnic wear, handcrafted jewelry, and home décor.
- Seller dashboard for inventory and order management.
- Focus on authentic, handmade, and regional crafts.
Pros:
- Unique product range that appeals to niche markets valuing culture and tradition.
- Supports small artisans and craft businesses.
- Quality control for curated artisan goods.
Cons:
- Smaller scale and limited product variety compared to general marketplaces.
- Less suitable for dropshipping due to product uniqueness and handling requirements.
Best For:
- Sellers specializing in ethnic and handcrafted products.
- Artisans and boutique businesses wanting a focused platform.
Integration/Support:
- Dedicated seller portal and customer support.
- Assistance with inventory and order tracking.
14. Taobao
Overview:
Taobao is a Chinese online shopping platform under Alibaba Group, primarily catering to the domestic Chinese market but accessible to international buyers through agents.
Key Features:
- Massive product selection.
- Competitive pricing.
- User-friendly interface (in Chinese).
Pros:
- Low product prices.
- Variety of unique items.
- Frequent promotions.
Cons:
- Language barrier (primarily in Chinese).
- Requires third-party agents for international shipping.
Best For:
- Sellers seeking unique products.
- Those comfortable navigating Chinese platforms.
Integration/Support:
- No direct integrations; relies on third-party agents.
- Limited customer support for international user
15. SUP Dropshipping
Overview:
SUP Dropshipping is a platform that offers product sourcing, order fulfillment, and shipping services, aiming to simplify the dropshipping process for sellers.
Key Features:
- Product sourcing assistance.
- Automated order fulfillment.
- Global shipping options.
Pros:
- Streamlined dropshipping process.
- Integration with major e-commerce platforms.
- Dedicated support team.
Cons:
- Service fees may apply.
- Limited control over product selection.
Best For:
- Sellers seeking an all-in-one dropshipping solution.
- Those new to dropshipping.
Integration/Support:
- Integrates with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
- Responsive customer support.
16. CJDropshipping
Overview:
CJDropshipping offers a wide array of products, order fulfillment, and custom packaging options, serving as a comprehensive alternative to AliExpress.
Key Features:
- Product sourcing and warehousing.
- Print-on-demand services.
- Custom packaging options.
Pros:
- Personalized sourcing requests.
- Competitive pricing.
- Integrated automation tools.
Cons:
- UI can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Shipping times vary based on location.
Best For:
- Sellers needing custom branding.
- Businesses wanting flexible sourcing.
Integration/Support:
- Supports Shopify, WooCommerce, eBay.
- Active chat and ticket support.
17. GlowRoad
Overview:
GlowRoad is a social reseller platform focused on empowering sellers to sell through WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. It offers a simple mobile app interface, product sourcing, and logistics support, enabling social commerce growth in India.
Key Features:
- No upfront investment: Sellers do not need to stock products.
- Wide product range: Includes apparel, accessories, home décor, and more.
- Order fulfillment and shipping: Handled entirely by GlowRoad.
- Direct customer interaction: Sellers manage relationships via social channels.
Pros:
- Simplifies social selling for users with no tech background.
- Encourages direct engagement with buyers.
- Comprehensive seller support and training modules.
Cons:
- Limited options for branding or product differentiation.
- Sellers mainly resell existing products, limiting unique offerings.
Integration/Support:
- Mobile app with real-time order tracking and seller assistance.
- Training programs and community support.
18. Modalyst
Overview:
Modalyst provides access to high-quality and name-brand products, including eco-friendly and luxury items, with a focus on fast shipping.
Key Features:
- Name-brand and independent suppliers.
- US and global warehouses.
- Real-time inventory sync.
Pros:
- Access to premium brands.
- Fast shipping in the US.
- Easy product import.
Cons:
- Expensive premium plans.
- Smaller catalog than Asian marketplaces.
Best for:
- Luxury and boutique dropshippers.
- Sellers targeting eco-conscious customers.
Integration/Support:
- Integrates with Shopify, BigCommerce, Wix.
- Knowledge base and email support.
19. Doba
Overview:
Doba aggregates multiple suppliers into one platform, simplifying product sourcing and fulfillment for dropshippers.
Key Features:
- Centralized supplier database.
- Product bundling and filtering tools.
- Order automation.
Pros:
- Single dashboard for supplier management.
- Reliable product availability.
- US-based inventory.
Cons:
- Higher product costs.
- Monthly subscription required.
Best for:
- Intermediate-level dropshippers.
- Sellers who prefer an all-in-one platform.
Integration/Support:
- Works with Shopify, BigCommerce, Amazon.
- Dedicated support and onboarding.
20. Wholesale2B
Overview:
Wholesale2B connects dropshippers to over 1 million products from multiple suppliers, providing automation tools and integration with several sales channels.
Key Features:
- Massive product catalog.
- Channel-specific automation.
- Centralized inventory updates.
Pros:
- Multi-channel support.
- Full automation options.
- No need to contact suppliers directly.
Cons:
- Monthly fees apply.
- Limited customization options.
Best for:
- Multi-platform dropshippers.
- Sellers wanting hands-off fulfillment.
Integration/Support:
- Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, eBay, and more.
- Ticket-based support and knowledge base.
21. Tomtop
Overview:
Tomtop is a Chinese online retailer offering a wide range of products, including electronics, home goods, and apparel, with a dropshipping program supporting global shipping.
Key Features:
- Diverse product categories.
- Global shipping options.
- Dropshipping-friendly policies.
Pros:
- Competitive wholesale pricing.
- Frequent deals and promotions.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Shipping times can be inconsistent.
- Product quality may vary.
Best for:
- Sellers seeking a broad product range.
- Dropshippers targeting budget-conscious consumers.
Integration/Support:
- Basic dropshipping support.
- Customer service via platform.
22. Kole Imports & Closeouts
Overview:
Kole Imports is a U.S.-based wholesale supplier specializing in general merchandise and closeout products, offering a dropshipping program with a vast catalog across various categories.
Key Features:
- Over 4,500 in-stock items across 30+ categories.
- Free access to dropshipping program.
- U.S.-based warehouse for faster domestic shipping.
Pros:
- Large and diverse product catalog.
- No upfront costs for dropshipping.
- Reliable shipping within the U.S.
Cons:
- Limited international shipping options.
- Product selection may not cater to niche markets.
Best for:
- U.S.-based sellers seeking general merchandise.
- Dropshippers focusing on bulk and closeout deals.
Integration/Support:
- Basic dropshipping support.
- Customer service via platform.
23. TVCMall
Overview:
TVCMall is a Chinese wholesale and dropshipping platform specializing in mobile accessories, electronics, and lifestyle products, offering competitive pricing and global shipping.
Key Features:
- Extensive catalog of electronics and accessories.
- API integration for automated listings and orders.
- No setup or monthly fees for dropshipping.
Pros:
- Wide product selection in electronics niche.
- Competitive pricing with decent profit margins.
- Responsive customer support.
Cons:
- Shipping times can be lengthy for certain regions.
- Product quality may vary across suppliers.
Best for:
- Dropshippers focusing on mobile accessories and electronics.
- Sellers seeking a cost-effective supplier with a broad catalog.
Integration/Support:
- API integrations available.
- 24/7 customer support.
24. Yaaku
Overview:
Yaaku is a dropshipping platform offering a wide range of products across various categories, aiming to provide sellers with an extensive catalog and global shipping options.
Key features:
- Wide product selection in electronics niche.
- Competitive pricing with decent profit margins.
- Responsive customer support.
Pros:
- Broad product selection.
- User-friendly platform interface.
- Competitive pricing.
Cons:
- Limited information on supplier reliability.
- Shipping times may vary.
Best for:
- Sellers seeking a wide range of products.
- Dropshippers targeting diverse markets.
Integration/Support:
- Basic dropshipping support.
- Customer service via platform.
25. Udaan
Overview:
Udaan is a B2B platform connecting small and medium retailers with suppliers, offering credit facilities and fast delivery to help businesses scale.
Key features:
- Wide product range including FMCG, electronics, clothing, and more.
- Business credit and financing options.
- Fast delivery services.
Pros:
- Facilitates bulk buying with flexible payment terms.
- Growing network of retailers and suppliers.
- Useful for expanding retail businesses.
Cons:
- Primarily B2B focus, not suitable for direct consumer dropshipping.
- Less intuitive for individual sellers.
Best for:
- Retailers sourcing inventory wholesale.
- Businesses needing credit facilities.
Integration/Support:
- Mobile app and web platform with support and business tools.
Conclusion
Choosing the right AliExpress alternative depends largely on your specific business needs whether you’re running a print-on-demand/dropshipping store, a general eCommerce shop, or reselling products via WhatsApp. It’s important to explore and test different platforms before fully committing and scaling your operations. In the competitive Indian market, factors like trusted suppliers, fast shipping, and strong branding play a crucial role in building customer loyalty and driving success. Taking the time to find a platform that meets these needs will help you grow your business sustainably.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any alternative to AliExpress in India?
Yes, there are several AliExpress alternatives in India that cater specifically to local needs. Platforms like Meesho, GlowRoad, and Shop101 offer local supplier networks and faster shipping, making them popular choices for Indian sellers and buyers. Additionally, some global platforms like Amazon India and Flipkart also support dropshipping and offer a wide product range with faster delivery.
Can I still order from AliExpress in India?
Yes, you can still order from AliExpress in India, but you may face longer shipping times and limited customer support due to regulatory restrictions and logistics challenges. Also, certain Chinese apps and services have faced bans or restrictions, which could affect your experience.
Does AliExpress dropship to India?
Yes, AliExpress sellers can ship products directly to customers in India, which supports dropshipping. However, delivery times can be lengthy, and returns or refunds might be more complicated compared to local alternatives. Many Indian sellers prefer using platforms with local warehouses for faster and more reliable fulfillment.
