If you’ve ever tried to check if Craigslist extends to mainland China, you might have found that only Hong Kong is included. Instead, China has some alternative platforms for free online classified ads. Everything on these websites is in Chinese, of course, so if you want to use it you can either ask a Chinese friend or partner, or you can use translation software such as Google translate.
This version of Google Translate works in China. If you want to use other Google services, you’ll have to use a VPN. You can check my guide on the best VPNs for China here.
Some of the services advertised on China’s classified platforms include second-hand items like furniture, appliances, electronics, and bikes.
This is a national classified website where people exchange local information about topics such as jobs, used cars, private services, and more in China. The founder, Yang Haoyong was inspired to create such a platform after using Craigslist during his studies in the US, 2004. After returning to China, he created the website with the help of his brothers.
58.com is a little more interesting of a platform in China, as it has shares on the New York Stock exchange. A hedge fund company has divided ownership of the company, as they are hoping it will one day dominate the market share. They say that online classified platforms are a winner-take-all industry.
This Shanghai-based platform is also attracting a lot of investment outside China. Baixing is reported to have over 10 million active users covering 367 cities in China. Looking at the platform objectively, it’s very similar to the other online classified sites.
This is the second-hand classified platform launched by Taobao of the Alibaba Group in China. They are trying to differentiate themselves as a social as well as a commercial platform. This site operates as a spin-off app that you can download on Chinese app stores.
The Best VPN for Craigslist
If you're looking for a good VPN to use in conjunction with Craigslist, I would recommend VyprVPN. They are a no-log VPN with which you can transmit your details confidently, without your data falling into the wrong hands.