Is AliExpress Back in India? Latest 2025 Updates You Need to Know
After nearly five years of restrictions, the burning question among Indian online shoppers is: “Is AliExpress back in India?”
The answer is partially yes—but with some important limitations. While the AliExpress website has been restored and is now accessible in India, the mobile app remains blocked, and users still cannot place new orders as shopping functionality is currently disabled.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore why AliExpress was banned, its current status in India, political responses, and what to expect in the future.
1. Is AliExpress Back in India? — Website Access Restored
On August 22, 2025, several reports confirmed that AliExpress’s website is once again live and accessible in India after being blocked since 2020.
However, there’s a catch — the app remains inaccessible, and users cannot yet make purchases.
This reopening comes alongside the partial restoration of other previously banned Chinese platforms like TikTok and Shein. Political discussions have quickly escalated following this decision, with the Congress party criticizing the government for allegedly “cozying up” to China.
The AliExpress website is accessible, but you still can’t shop—at least for now.
2. Why Was AliExpress Banned in India?
Before we dive into the current situation, let’s revisit the background.
In November 2020, the Indian government officially banned AliExpress, along with several other Chinese apps, citing concerns over national security and data privacy under Section 69A of the IT Act.
Reasons Behind the Ban
Rising tensions between India and China at the Ladakh border in 2020.
- Allegations of data misuse and breaches of privacy.
- Growing pressure to promote Indian e-commerce platforms.
After the ban, Indian users faced significant disruptions. By 2023, AliExpress had stopped shipping orders to India entirely, and many parcels were either blocked at customs or returned to sellers.
3. AliExpress Is Back—But Still Not Fully Functional
So, is AliExpress back in India for shopping?
Not yet.
While the site loads perfectly fine, several restrictions remain:
Shopping Disabled: You cannot add products to your cart or make payments.
No Official App Access: The AliExpress app is still blocked on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Limited Features: Product browsing works, but checkout is unavailable.
According to India Today, the current reopening looks more like a technical restoration of web access rather than a full relaunch.
Pro Tip: Even though the website works, do not attempt VPN-based orders for now. There are chances of customs seizure and failed deliveries.
4. Can Indians Order from AliExpress Right Now?
Despite the excitement, shopping on AliExpress from India is still not possible through official channels. However, some users in the past have tried:
VPN Access: Few users reported partial success accessing AliExpress via VPN, but payment gateways often failed.
Freight Forwarding: Some customers used third-party services to receive parcels abroad and reroute them to India — but this often involves high shipping costs.
Interestingly, there are viral stories of extremely delayed deliveries:
A Delhi-based techie finally received his AliExpress order placed in 2019, but it was delivered four years later, in 2023.
On Reddit, frustrated shoppers claimed:
“AliExpress used to deliver, but not anymore after the Pangong Lake incident and the government ban.”
These stories showcase both the nostalgia and frustration Indian users have towards AliExpress.
5. Political Reactions & Public Sentiment
The restoration of AliExpress in India has stirred strong political debates:
The Congress party accused the central government of “softening its stance” on China, comparing this move to a “digital ceasefire.”
On the other hand, online shoppers celebrated the possibility of regaining access to affordable Chinese gadgets and products.
However, there’s still significant public backlash regarding AliExpress’s past controversies.
In July 2025, AliExpress faced outrage after listing a doormat featuring Lord Jagannath, a revered Hindu deity. Social media erupted, leading to calls for legal action and a renewed boycott of the platform.
6. AliExpress in India 2025 — Status at a Glance
Aspect Status (August 2025)
Website Access ✅ Yes, accessible on browsers
App Availability ❌ Still blocked on Android & iOS
Shopping Functionality ❌ Not available yet
Year of Ban 2020
Can Indians Order Now? No, not officially
Political Response Mixed reactions — security concerns remain
7. What’s Next for AliExpress in India?
The big question isn’t just “Is AliExpress back in India?” but rather “When will it become fully functional?”
Here’s what we might see in the coming months:
a) Government Announcements
The Indian government may clarify if this reopening is temporary, limited, or permanent.
b) AliExpress’s Next Steps
If AliExpress plans a full-scale relaunch, they’ll need to:
- Address data security concerns.
- Comply with Indian e-commerce regulations.
- Possibly collaborate with Indian logistics partners.
c) User Expectations
If the shopping feature returns, Indian users could once again enjoy:
- Affordable electronics & gadgets
- Fashion & lifestyle products
- Unique imports unavailable on local platforms
Conclusion: AliExpress Is Back, But Not for Shopping — Yet
To summarize:
Yes, the AliExpress website is now accessible in India (as of August 2025).
No, you cannot shop yet, and the app remains banned.
Political debates, cultural controversies, and security concerns will play a huge role in determining what happens next.
If you’re waiting for AliExpress to fully return, keep an eye on government announcements and official updates from the company.
For now, you can browse—but not buy.
Final Verdict
Is AliExpress back in India?
Partially, yes.
But until the Indian government allows transactions and app functionality, AliExpress is far from making a complete comeback.