How to Buy from Tmall.hk (天猫国际)

Tmall.hk is Alibaba’s official cross-border ecommerce platform, designed to offer authentic international goods to Chinese consumers. But what many don’t know is that international buyers can also take advantage of the platform—especially with the help of reliable agents. Whether you're a reseller, dropshipper, or personal shopper, this guide will help you understand how to buy from Tmall.hk and get products delivered globally.
What is Tmall.hk?
Tmall.hk (天猫国际) is the international version of Tmall.com, catering specifically to cross-border trade. It allows overseas brands to sell directly to Chinese consumers without needing a physical presence in China.
Key features of Tmall.hk:
- Cross-border B2C platform
- No Chinese business license needed for sellers
- Products are shipped from overseas warehouses
- Goods are usually imported under bonded warehouses
- All products are authentic and branded
Though it's primarily made for Chinese buyers purchasing overseas goods, savvy international shoppers are using it to access unique products and brand deals not available elsewhere.
Can You Buy from Tmall.hk as an International Buyer?
Yes, but with limitations. Tmall.hk is not optimised for overseas shoppers, and:
- It doesn’t offer direct international shipping to most countries.
- The site is fully in Simplified Chinese.
- Payment methods like Alipay are required.
- Verification of Chinese ID may be needed for delivery within China.
That’s why many international buyers turn to Tmall.hk buying agents who help bridge the gap.
What Products Can You Find on Tmall.hk?
Tmall.hk specialises in authentic, imported goods across these categories:
- Health supplements
- Luxury skincare and cosmetics
- International baby products
- Overseas fashion brands
- Imported food and beverages
- Household appliances
Benefits of Buying from Tmall.hk
- Authenticity Guarantee
All products on Tmall.hk are vetted by Alibaba and come from authorised sellers or brand owners. - Competitive Pricing
International brands use Tmall.hk to test the Chinese market, sometimes offering launch discounts or lower-than-market rates. - Huge Variety
More than 29,000+ global brands use Tmall.hk—from Japan, Korea, USA, Australia, and beyond.
Challenges for International Buyers
Tmall.hk is not friendly for foreign users. Here's why:
- Language Barrier
The site is fully in Simplified Chinese, with no official English version. - China-Only Shipping
Most sellers only ship within China, or to bonded warehouses in specific Chinese cities. - Alipay Required
Many listings require Alipay or Chinese payment methods, which foreigners might not have. - Identity Verification
Some orders require Mainland Chinese ID, especially if stored in bonded warehouses.
How to Buy from Tmall.hk (Step-by-Step)
Use a Buying Agent (Recommended)
Buying agents simplify the process for international buyers. Here's how it works:
- Send product link from Tmall.hk to the agent.
- Agent purchases it using local payment methods.
- Goods are delivered to their China warehouse.
- Agent consolidates and ships to your country.
Recommended for:
- Resellers, dropshippers
- Non-Chinese speakers
- Buyers without Alipay or Chinese ID
Tip: Choose agents who offer both “Buy For Me” and “Ship For Me” services for flexibility.
Use a Freight Forwarder (Ship For Me)
If you already bought the item yourself and need to ship it internationally, use a freight forwarder in China. You’ll need to:
- Enter their warehouse address during checkout.
- Notify the agent to expect the parcel.
- Arrange international shipping with them.
This option requires:
- Basic Chinese understanding
- Alipay access
Payment Options on Tmall.hk
Tmall.hk supports:
Alipay
WeChat Pay
Chinese bank cards
If using a buying agent, you can typically pay them via:
Wise
Cards
Bank transfer
Dropshipping from Tmall.hk: Is It Possible?
Yes, with the help of an agent. Here’s how it works:
You list Tmall.hk products on your own store.
When a customer orders, you purchase through your agent.
Agent ships directly to your customer.
Tmall.hk has exclusive products and overseas brands not available on AliExpress.
The authenticity gives confidence to your buyers.
Using a trusted agent allows automation and repeat ordering.
How to Find Product Links on Tmall.hk
Go to: https://www.tmall.hk
Use Chinese keywords (e.g. “婴儿奶粉” for baby formula).
Filter by:
Category (品类)
Brand (品牌)
Reviews (评价)
Copy the URL and share it with Com&Buy.
Tip: Use browser tools like Google Translate to navigate Tmall.hk.
Storage and Consolidation Tips
When buying multiple items:
Free storage period (30 days).
Request repacking to save on dimensional weight.
Final Tips for Buying from Tmall.hk
- Use a buying agent if you're not based in China.
- Stick to branded goods and top-rated stores.
- Consolidate parcels for lower shipping costs.
- Ask for proof of condition if you're buying high-value items.
- Consider dropshipping if you're running an online store.
Ready to Buy from Tmall.hk?
With the right tools and a reliable buying agent, Tmall.hk becomes a valuable sourcing platform for ecommerce sellers and international shoppers. You’ll unlock access to thousands of overseas brands with authentic stock at competitive pricing.