YouTube has partnered with AliExpress to give eligible content creators more opportunities to earn commissions by promoting products directly in their videos, Shorts, and livestreams.
Announced on October 20, 2026, the global affiliate partnership will connect AliExpress’s extensive product catalogue with YouTube’s shopping features, allowing creators to tag eligible items and earn money from qualifying sales generated through their content.
The collaboration launched in South Korea in March 2026 and is now set to expand to the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom and Germany. Further expansion will follow as YouTube extends its Shopping Affiliate Program to additional markets.
Creators Can Tag Products Across YouTube Formats
Under the partnership, eligible creators will be able to find and select AliExpress products directly through YouTube Studio. They can then tag products in long-form videos, YouTube Shorts, and livestreams, giving viewers a direct route to the AliExpress marketplace.
For example, a creator reviewing a smartphone accessory could tag the product in an unboxing video, while someone hosting a livestream could feature items during a demonstration. Viewers can follow the product links to AliExpress to complete their purchases.
The available product categories include consumer electronics, sports and outdoor equipment, home and living products, and lifestyle items.
AliExpress will also feature its Brand+ selection, which includes products from international and local brands.
Partnership Expands Monetization Opportunities
The deal builds on YouTube’s Shopping Affiliate Program, launched in 2022, which enables eligible creators to earn commissions by recommending products in their content.
By adding AliExpress, YouTube expands the range of products available for promotion, potentially giving creators more options to match recommendations with their audiences’ interests.
AliExpress will use data on bestselling and trending products to help creators identify items that may appeal to viewers. The arrangement also provides the retailer with another channel for product discovery, using creator reviews, demonstrations and recommendations to connect with potential customers.
“Content and commerce are converging globally,” said Eric Zhang, Vice President of AliExpress, describing the partnership as a way to connect the company’s affiliate ecosystem with YouTube’s creator network.
Expansion to Four Major Markets
Following the initial South Korean launch, the partnership is expanding into the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom and Germany. Additional markets are expected to follow in phases, aligned with the rollout of YouTube’s affiliate programme.
However, participation is not automatic for every creator. Applicants must be based in a participating market and meet YouTube’s channel eligibility and Shopping Affiliate Program requirements. Eligible creators can apply through YouTube Studio.
What the Deal Means for Creators and Brands
The partnership reflects the growing overlap between online video and e-commerce. Creators can turn product recommendations into potential revenue, while AliExpress gains access to audiences who may be more inclined to purchase after watching a trusted creator demonstrate an item.
For YouTube, adding another major retailer could make its shopping ecosystem more attractive to creators and advertisers. The partnership’s broader impact will depend on creator adoption, product relevance, commission terms, and the continued expansion of the programme into new markets.
Source: PR Newswire
