If you’ve ever tried sending a large PDF file to a client in mainland China, you’ve likely run into the infamous “Great Firewall”—or experienced extremely slow download speeds, blocked services, or broken links. Sharing large files internationally is already tough, but doing so across China’s unique internet infrastructure requires an extra layer of planning.
This guide will walk you through practical, up-to-date solutions for sharing large PDF files (and other documents) with clients based in China—without the stress.
Why Common File Sharing Services Don’t Work in China
Popular platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, and even Box are either fully or partially blocked in mainland China. VPNs are sometimes used to bypass restrictions, but most business clients in China avoid VPN use due to local regulations and corporate firewalls.
This means if you email a Google Drive link to a client in Shanghai or Beijing, they might not even be able to open the page—let alone download your file.
To get your documents delivered efficiently, you’ll need to use platforms that are accessible within the Chinese web environment, and ideally, offer user interfaces in both English and Simplified Chinese.
Best China-Compatible Platforms for Uploading and Sharing PDFs
1. Tencent Weiyun (Weiyun.com)
Tencent Weiyun is one of the most stable cloud platforms inside China. It’s used widely for both business and personal file storage.
Website: Weiyun Cloud
Pros: High-speed access in China, mobile and desktop apps, large file support
Cons: Chinese-language interface only, signup requires a Chinese phone number
If your client already uses WeChat, they might be able to download files shared via a public Weiyun link.
2. Alibaba’s Aliyun Drive (Drive.aliyun.com)
Aliyun Drive is China’s equivalent of Google Drive and is highly trusted for business use.
Website: Aliyun Drive
Pros: High transfer speed, user-friendly UI (Chinese only), generous free storage
Cons: Signup may require a Chinese phone number and real-name verification
You can generate a public share link and send it directly via email or WeChat.
3. Baidu Netdisk (Pan.baidu.com)
Baidu Netdisk is another top-tier file sharing platform that works reliably across China.
Website: Baidu Netdisk
Pros: Massive user base, proven performance
Cons: Requires a Baidu account, Chinese-only UI, slow speeds for non-paid users
Tip: If your client has a paid Baidu account, ask them to create a shared folder and give you upload access.
4. Jumpshare (For Non-China to China Transfers)
If you’re outside China and need a platform that has some reliability for cross-border transfers, Jumpshare is a lightweight option.
Website: Jumpshare
Pros: No account needed for downloads, clean UI
Cons: Occasionally blocked or slow in mainland China
Send a test link to your client first to confirm it works in their region.
File Size Tips: Compress Before You Upload
Most of these platforms support files up to 2GB for free users. But keep in mind:
Compress your PDFs using tools like Smallpdf, PDF24, or ILovePDF before upload
Split large PDFs into smaller chunks if needed
Avoid media-heavy formats like embedded videos
A compressed PDF is more likely to be opened and downloaded quickly, especially on mobile connections.
How to Email the File Link Effectively
Once uploaded, here’s how to email it safely:
Don’t paste the raw link. Instead, use text like “Please download the report from this secure folder” and hyperlink it.
Add a fallback: “If the above link doesn’t work, please let me know and I’ll send it via WeChat.”
Consider using both English and Simplified Chinese in your email if your client isn’t fluent in English
Example:
“Hello Mr. Zhang,
Please find our Q2 proposal in the following secure link: Download Q2 Proposal
Let me know if you experience any issues accessing it.
Best regards,”
Extra Tip: WeChat File Transfer for Trusted Clients
If you’re already connected via WeChat, you can send PDFs directly through WeChat’s file transfer features. However:
Files are capped at 100MB via chat (Weiyun link bypasses this)
It’s best used for ongoing client communication, not formal first-time outreach
Final Thoughts on Reliable File Delivery into China
When emailing clients in China, always think twice before attaching a Google Drive or Dropbox link. Even if it works on your end, your client may hit a brick wall.
Using localized platforms like Weiyun or Aliyun Drive ensures your important documents actually reach their destination. Consider asking clients what platforms they prefer—many already have go-to tools.
With the right approach and tools, cross-border collaboration with Chinese clients doesn’t have to involve file transfer headaches. Just a little localization goes a long way.