DTI, TikTok eye stronger partnership to accelerate e-commerce and boost MSMEs in the Philippines | Andrea E. San Juan (2024)

The government is in talks with social media platform TiktTokfor a possible collaboration to establish a Content Creator Academy to promote Filipino creative minds, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“Both parties also discussed possible collaboration in the establishment of a Content Creator Academy to foster Filipino talents and creative minds to pave the way for a deeper digital integration in the country,” the Trade department said in a statement on Thursday as it divulged that it is intensifying existing partnerships and exploring potential collaborations to beef up the country’s innovative economy.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual said the agency’s collaboration with TikTok represents a “pivotal step” in propelling e-commerce forward in the Philippines.

“This partnership is poised to significantly bolster the growth and development of the digital marketplace, benefiting businesses, consumers, and the overall economy,” Pascual said.

The Trade chief further recognized TikTok’s role in “empowering” Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Their accelerated adoption of e-commerce is crucial for revolutionizing production sectors, generating high-quality employment opportunities, and elevating the competitiveness of Philippine products on the global stage,” added Pascual.

The Philippine delegation which was spearheaded by Pascual flocked to Singapore to meet with TikTok representatives and discuss potential tie-ups.

According to DTI, the Philippine delegation “welcomed” Tiktok’s Safety Enforcement Tool (TSET), a platform designed to promote consumer protection.

TSET is a portal built for verified government agencies and law enforcement representatives to “securely” request and monitor the progress of content takedown.

While the DTI is “eager” to explore the implementation of TSET, it underscored the “critical need” for transparent information sharing regarding government reports.

For instance, the Philippine Trade department noted that with the passage of the Internet Transactions Act (ITA), all platforms including TikTok are expected to adhere to the regulations outlined in the new law.

Pascual outlined the objectives of the partnership between DTI and Tiktok which are to empower Filipino small merchants, uplift communities, and increase market access, particularly in rural areas, as outlined in the E-Commerce Philippines 2025 Roadmap.

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ Trade chief commended TikTok for the social media platform’s “swift” action in response to show cause orders issued by the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau concerning the sale of vape products.

“To date, TikTok removed 570 user-generated content and 337 associated products—demonstrating its commitment to comply with local laws and regulations,” DTI said.

“We encourage TikTok to continue its compliance with relevant local laws and regulations. The Philippine government’s task force investigating issues surrounding TikTok will remain impartial and provide the platform with opportunities to address and clarify concerns,” Secretary Pascual said.

DTI said TikTok has been a “proactive” partner of the Philippine government in “shaping the future” of e-commerce in the country.

The agency also noted that the social media platform has provided “valuable insights and participated in the consultations for the Internet Transactions Act (ITA) and the upcoming E-Commerce Roadmap 2025.”