YouTube has launched its Shopping affiliate program in India, enhancing its shopping features that were previously available in countries like the US and South Korea. This new initiative enables YouTube creators in India to tag products from popular e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Myntra in their videos, allowing them to earn commissions on sales generated through these links.
Benefits for Creators and Viewers
The YouTube Shopping affiliate program aims to support creators by diversifying their income streams while offering viewers easy access to product recommendations from their favorite content creators. Creators can tag products across various video formats, including long-form videos, Shorts, and livestreams. When viewers click on these tags, they will be redirected to the respective Flipkart or Myntra pages to complete their purchases.
Enhancing Existing Features
This new program builds on YouTube’s current shopping features, which allow creators to connect their merchandise stores to their channels. In addition to the affiliate program, creators can also monetize their content through advertisements, YouTube Premium, and fan features like Channel Memberships, Super Chat, and Super Stickers.
Joining the Program
To participate in the program, creators must complete a registration process. Once enrolled, they can tag products in both new and existing videos as well as livestreams. Tagged items will be easily discoverable in the video description or under the ‘Product’ section, making it simple for viewers to find products across various devices, including mobile, web, and connected TVs.
Global Impact and Future Prospects
Travis Katz, General Manager and Vice President of Shopping at YouTube, highlighted the program’s global success, stating, “With over 30 billion hours of shopping-related content watched in 2023 alone, we’re excited to bring this momentum to India. The YouTube Shopping affiliate program offers Indian creators a unique opportunity to diversify their revenue streams and deepen their connection with their audiences.”
The expansion of YouTube’s shopping features is a significant step forward for creators and viewers alike, making it easier to discover and purchase products directly from content they love.
