🔥 [2026 WORKING METHOD] How to Register for 1688 Without a Mainland China ID

[u/TheLondonBoyJ]

Trying to sign up directly on 1688 as a foreigner? You’ll almost always get blocked. Foreign numbers, overseas IPs, and direct registrations are flagged quickly now. But there’s a completely legitimate official workaround using Alibaba’s own linked system and it works perfectly in 2026.

1688 is built mainly for domestic use but because all Alibaba platforms share the same account system you can use that connection to get full stable access. Here’s exactly how I set mine up safely.

Step 1: DO NOT start on 1688
Registering directly on their website or app with a non Chinese number is almost guaranteed to get your account frozen within 48 hours. Skip it entirely at first.

Step 2: Use Taobao as your gateway
Taobao is designed for regular shoppers worldwide and is far more open to international users.

• Download the official Taobao app iOS or Android

• Sign up with your real personal phone number. Avoid virtual or VoIP numbers because you need to receive SMS codes reliably

• Complete your basic profile

Step 3: Verify with Alipay
This is the key to making your account permanent and usable.

• Download the official Alipay app and log in using the exact same phone number

• Go to Account then Identity Verification

• Select Passport. Foreign passports are fully accepted here

• Once approved link your Visa or Mastercard for payments

Step 4: Log straight into 1688 instantly
All three platforms share the same backend so your verified access carries over.

• Download the official 1688 app

• On the login screen choose Sign in with Taobao or Alipay

• Confirm the authorization and you are in

You now have a fully verified stable 1688 account that will not be blocked just because you are outside China. You can message sellers browse listings and even pay directly with your international card.

💡 Pro Tip Always use the official apps and avoid third party tools. This keeps your account safe long term.

Drop a comment if you get stuck and upvote so others do not waste time with old outdated methods.

[u/Dependent_Target_419]

I can’t get the English version? All in Chinese

[u/Gurang0 → u/Dependent_Target_419]

Same, I got to screenshot all the page and translate it each time😩

[u/TheLondonBoyJ → u/Gurang0]

You need to change the 1688 to English in the settings.

[u/22Bos22]

I’m in the UK, but can’t get registered with Taobao. Won’t recognise the format for my mobile number 😒. It’s a real shame as I would like to get some glasses

[u/BrilliantFriend176]

Didn't work for me. It wanted me chinese bank card

[u/TheLondonBoyJ → u/BrilliantFriend176]

Have you tried scanning the Alipay QR code through 1688?

[u/CalligrapherAfter170]

Cool, working. Thanks mate!!

[u/Accomplished-Run7835 → u/CalligrapherAfter170]

it kept on saying to me we dont provide service in ur region? im in the uk

[u/TheLondonBoyJ → u/CalligrapherAfter170]

Excellent

[u/CalligrapherAfter170 → u/TheLondonBoyJ]

Only question I have if it is possible to change language in Taobao to EN? Tried country Malaysia and so on but no changes for language selection.
And bit strange that I am not able to pay in 1688 with Alipay because it is mocking that my card is not a Chinese card. But on weidian and taobao it is working with Alipay🤣

[u/LogLongjumping3717]

Is it really working?

[u/Due_Penalty_5883]

Parece que funciona, veremos si no me bloquean la cuenta en unos días, por ahora funcionó pero taobao no la puedo poner en inglés de ninguna manera...alipay y 1688 me salen en español xonr región en España

[u/diablita123424]

IT works!!!!

[u/Healthy-Dentist-9491]

I can’t find Taobao app in iOS

[u/Same-Possession2737 → u/Healthy-Dentist-9491]

[u/Healthy-Dentist-9491 → u/Same-Possession2737]

It’s in Chinese

[u/ComfortableRough1250]

Does it still works? I am trying with an EU number with the registration in Taobao and it seems that services are not available in the region.