In China, Google services do not work normally due to government internet restrictions. This includes Google Search, YouTube, Gmail, Google Maps, and Google AdSense dashboards, which are generally blocked on the mainland.
YouTube is blocked in China. Users cannot access it without special tools like VPNs, which are restricted and not officially allowed. Because of this, YouTube videos do not get organic views from mainland China users, and creators inside China cannot freely upload or manage channels.
Google AdSense is also blocked for access inside China. While existing AdSense accounts may still earn money from traffic outside China, publishers located in mainland China usually cannot log in, manage ads, or create new AdSense accounts without restricted tools. Payments can work only if all account details were set up outside China and comply with Google policies.
Important exception: In Hong Kong and Macau, Google, YouTube, and AdSense work normally because they have open internet access. Many Chinese companies target global audiences by operating from these regions or using international hosting and management teams.
Summary:
Google – ❌ Blocked
YouTube – ❌ Blocked
AdSense – ❌ Blocked (earning possible only from outside-China traffic)
Q: How do Chinese creators earn money without YouTube?
Chinese creators earn money without YouTube by using local Chinese platforms and alternative monetization methods that are fully accessible inside China.
They primarily create content on domestic video platforms such as short-video and long-video apps, where creators earn through platform ad-revenue sharing, creator incentive programs, and traffic bonuses based on views and engagement.
Live streaming and e-commerce are major income sources. Creators sell products during live streams, earn commissions through affiliate links, and collaborate with brands for sponsored content. This model is often more profitable than ads alone.
Many creators also make money through brand partnerships, paid promotions, and influencer marketing. Companies pay directly for product placement, reviews, or campaign videos targeting Chinese audiences.
Additional income comes from paid memberships, digital tips, online courses, and exclusive content, allowing fans to support creators directly within the platform ecosystem.
Q: How do global YouTubers still get views from China indirectly?
Global YouTubers get views from China indirectly, even though YouTube is blocked, through alternative distribution and audience overlap.
Their videos are often re-uploaded or shared on Chinese video platforms by fans, media pages, or partner accounts. These reposts expose the content to mainland audiences, even if the original YouTube link is inaccessible.
Some views come from Chinese users living outside mainland China, such as in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, or Western countries, where YouTube works normally. These audiences still count toward YouTube views.
Overseas Chinese communities and social sharing also help. Clips and highlights circulate on local social networks, forums, and messaging apps, driving awareness even without direct YouTube access.
In a limited number of cases, users with special internet access can view YouTube, but this is not common and does not represent mainstream traffic.