Guide
Paying for Taobao from abroad
Taobao accepts some international cards, but payments from abroad are not always smooth. Here are the options and what to do when a payment fails.
Your options
| Method | How | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| International card on Taobao | Add a Visa or Mastercard in the app's payment settings | Can be declined; new accounts may face checks |
| Alipay with a linked card | Link an international card to Alipay | Identity verification may be needed |
| Through an agent | Pay the agent in your currency | The agent pays the seller in yuan |
Paying through us
- We send a quote in US dollars with the exchange rate stated.
- You pay by PayPal, Wise or Western Union through a payment request in WhatsApp.
- We pay the seller and send you the order confirmation.
You pay twice: items before we buy, and shipping when the parcel is packed. Fees for PayPal, Wise or Western Union, if any, are shown before you pay. See fees.
Avoid these
- Paying a seller directly by bank transfer outside Taobao: you lose Taobao's buyer protection.
- Sharing your Taobao login with anyone.
- Any site that asks for your card details to "unlock" Taobao prices.
Questions
Does Taobao accept PayPal?
Not directly at Taobao's checkout. You can pay an agent by PayPal and the agent pays the seller.
Can I use Alipay as a foreigner?
Alipay supports linking some international cards for use in China, but it may ask for identity verification and limits apply.
Why was my card declined on Taobao?
Common reasons are the bank blocking a foreign transaction, the card type not being supported, or Taobao's risk checks on a new account. Calling your bank sometimes helps.