AliExpress rolls out free Elite VIP program for $800-plus shoppers

AliExpress is piloting Elite, an invitation-only VIP program for customers who spend over $800 a year, in Australia, the UK, Germany, and Spain. Unlike Amazon Prime, Elite costs nothing and gives members an extra 5% off many products, 24/7 customer service and easier returns.

AliExpress plans to roll out Elite to additional European countries and South Korea next month, with a U.S. launch date still to be decided. The company aims to enroll one million Elite members by the end of the year. Elite is part of a broader AliExpress effort that includes testing next-day delivery from local warehouses in Madrid, Paris and Warsaw. The initiative follows new tariffs and EU parcel fees that have undermined the low-cost direct-from-China shipping model. AliExpress tests Elite, a free invite-only VIP program for shoppers who spend over $800 a year, in a bid to compete with Amazon.

AliExpress had engaged in a price war with rival eCommerce firms Shein and Temu, but all three firms shifted their focus after the U.S. introduced new tariffs and the European Union placed a handling fee on packages from outside the region, the report said. As part of this shift, AliExpress is testing next-day delivery in some European cities and increasing the share of branded products in its product lineup, per the report. Alibaba Group said in an Aug. 20 press release that AliExpress achieved operating profit during the quarter ended June 30.

What we know

• Spend threshold of $800 a year

• 5% discount for members

• Pilot countries Australia, UK, Germany, Spain

• Expansion to more European markets and South Korea next month

• Goal of one million members by end of year