AliExpress is a global online retail service based in China and owned by the Alibaba Group. Launched in 2010, it is made up of small businesses in China and other locations, such as Singapore, that offer products to international online buyers. It is the most visited e-commerce website in Russia and was the 10th most popular website in Brazil. It facilitates small businesses to sell to customers all over the world.

AliExpress has drawn comparison to eBay, as sellers are independent and use the platform to offer products to buyers. AliExpress is different from Amazon because it acts only as an e-commerce platform and does not itself sell products directly to consumers. It directly connects Chinese businesses with buyers. Although most of the retailers are Chinese, AliExpress is aimed at international import buyers and does not sell to customers in mainland China. Customers in China use fellow Alibaba-subsidiary Taobao, because of its convenience in delivery and service, especially the payment method, Alipay.

AliExpress offers a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and toys. Prices on AliExpress are typically lower than prices on other online retail websites, such as Amazon. However, shipping times can be longer, as most products are shipped from China.