Alibaba's 1688 Launches AI Customization Product 'Xiangzao'

Alibaba's 1688 platform is advancing its consumer-facing AI customization agent product, 'Xiangzao', currently embedded within the main 1688 platform. Users can independently complete the entire process through AI, from design creation and finished product preview to price quotation and one-click ordering. Once an order is generated, the system automatically distributes it to the production line for processing, based on core elements such as raw materials, craftsmanship, and cutting templates, without requiring secondary handling by the factory.

Users can input text descriptions of their needs or upload brand logos and reference images. The system quickly renders a 3D physical preview and provides quotes from source factories. After completing the design, users can proceed to order and production with one click. For merchants who have registered their store names, the AI can directly generate a complete set of packaging and promotional material solutions for their stores.

Currently, 'Xiangzao' covers product categories including canvas bags, paper bags, T-shirts, disposable paper cups, throw pillows, pet tags, and cultural and creative merchandise, encompassing mainstream needs such as tea shop materials, personal creative products, corporate small gifts, and IP-related merchandise. These categories benefit from mature standardized base materials and low entry barriers for flexible small-batch production.

According to a 2022 report, the domestic custom apparel market has approached RMB 200 billion. However, 'Xiangzao' targets not only apparel but also diverse scenarios such as packaging paper bags, canvas bags, creative cups, throw pillows, anime merchandise, pet tags, and office cultural materials.