Data from Apple’s App Store released on August 27 revealed that AliExpress, a subsidiary of Alibaba, has surged to the top of the UK’s iOS free download chart. The UK, being the fourth-largest e-commerce market globally, is seeing increased investment from AliExpress. The platform is expanding its “overseas fulfillment” (also referred to as “semi-fulfillment”) services, particularly in key Western markets like the UK. This includes initiatives such as offering substantial subsidies for brands expanding abroad and launching large furniture items internationally, aiming to introduce a wider range of products and further expand its presence in overseas markets. According to Alibaba’s financial report for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, driven by the growth of the AliExpress Choice business, Alibaba’s international retail business saw significant 38% growth.