YouTube is bringing AliExpress products into its YouTube Shopping affiliate program. Creators can tag AliExpress items in their videos and earn a commission when viewers buy through those links. The partnership launched first in South Korea in March 2026 and is now expanding to the U.S., Brazil, the U.K. and Germany, with more regions to follow in phases.
How big the YouTube Shopping affiliate program has become
The program launched in 2022 and expanded to the U.K. in August. At its Made On event, YouTube said it plans to reach 35 markets by the end of 2026. The bigger the pool of taggable products, the more ways creators can make money from shopping content.
Why AliExpress
- Catalog size: AliExpress lists more than 100 million products, according to WorldFirst — endless material for hauls, reviews and budget picks.
- U.S. momentum: AliExpress’ U.S. GMV grew 50% year over year during its May 2026 promotion, according to eBrun.
- YouTube’s incentive: more shopping income keeps creators loyal to the platform.
What it means for brands and creators
- Expect more price-comparison content. “Same product, cheaper” videos will multiply. Brands should show quality guarantees, fast shipping and support on camera rather than competing on price alone.
- Revisit your affiliate terms. Creators will favor products that pay a commission, so list your products in YouTube Shopping and set competitive rates. YouTube’s broader push to keep creators is covered in YouTube Tests Invite-Only Shorts Bonuses and Exclusive Shopping Perks.
- Watch Korea as the test market. The setup has run there since March, so it offers an early read on how AliExpress tags change shopping content in a category.