Taobao guide

Taobao now offers limited English support, making it easier for international buyers. Here’s how to leverage it:

🌐 How to Use Taobao in English

1. Official Partial English Interface

1. Go to Taobao World (dedicated international portal)
2. Click “English” at top-right (only product titles/descriptions translate automatically)
3. Limitation: Search/seller communication remains mostly Chinese

2. Browser Translation (Recommended)

1. Chrome Users:
   • Right-click anywhere > “Translate to English”
   • Enable “Always translate Chinese” in pop-up
2. Extensions:
   • Immersive Translate (best for Taobao)
   • Mate Translate

3. Mobile App Translation

1. iOS/Android: Use screen translation tools
   • iOS: Settings > General > Language & Region > Add Chinese > Use “Translate” app overlay
   • Android: Google Lens real-time translation

🔍 Optimized Sourcing Workflow

Step 1: English-Friendly Search

• Use mixed language keywords:
  “连衣裙 dress 批发” (wholesale dresses)
  “手机壳 phone case OEM”
• Filter with translated buttons:
  ✅ “Tmall” (verified stores)
  ✅ “Top Ranked”

Step 2: Verify Suppliers

• Check translated:
  • “Store Rating” (4.8+/5)
  • “Customer Reviews” (look for photo evidence)
• Ask in English:
  “Can you provide factory certification?” (many sellers understand basic English)

Step 3: Order via Agent

Recommended English agents:

1. SHOPTIMA: Best for QC inspections

🚨 3 New Red Flags in English Mode

💡 5 English Mode Hacks

1. Image Search: Upload product photo > right-click “Search Taobao with image”
2. Price Check: Compare translated price with 1688.com (often 15-30% cheaper)
3. Save Translations: Use Notion/Excel to build keyword glossary
4. Chat Translation: Use Google Translate app camera mode for seller messages
5. Bookmark Helpful Icons:

📱 Recommended Tools

• Web: DeepL Translate (more accurate than Google)
• Mobile: Waygo (real-time Chinese menu/product translation)
• Agent: SHOPTIMA’s Taobao English Interface (auto-translates entire pages)

Download Taobao English Cheat Sheet | Get Free Sourcing Consultation