Aliexpress Supplier Issue - No communication since order placed and paid for

[Auds]

Has anyone resolved a similar issue (as mentioned above). 

Placed 40+ orders with my supplier, all was going well until this weekend's orders went through. I processed and paid for another 7 orders, however, I haven't heard from my supplier in 4 days (Friday to Tuesday). I understand I cannot ask for a refund immediately, that I need to wait for the automated period to end before submitting my request in Aliexpress. However, I need to place these orders with another supplier so my customers aren't kept waiting any longer. Aliexpress Customer Service is automated so I cannot get any real answers regarding how best to handle this situation. PS I have a new supplier now, and have placed new orders with him (back up plan)