📉 TikTok ban shakes sellers
Chinese merchants are bracing for TikTok's US ban, set for Jan 19.Many, like Zhuhai-based Qian Liu, are offloading stock.Qian, who runs 12 TikTok stores, says US profits had fueled big plans.These include renting an office and hiring staff, now on hold.TikTok faces a law requiring ByteDance to sell US operations.The alternative? A ban from US app stores.Merchants are hedging bets, with fears of losing their US audience.
🛒 Diversifying platforms
To counter the ban, sellers eye Amazon and Shein as alternatives.Qian plans to expand into Spain and Mexico via TikTok Shop.A Shenzhen-based seller shifted inventory to Shopee & Amazon.Many refuse to “put all eggs in one basket,” citing uncertainty.TikTok’s rivals like Xiaohongshu are also gaining traction.Its social-shopping features and Pinterest-like layout attract users.
🚫 Geopolitical tension grows
TikTok's fate hinges on ByteDance’s refusal to sell its algorithms.China's govt blocked tech exports in 2020 to protect key assets.Analysts predict Beijing sees the ban as a political slap.Beijing may retaliate, targeting US firms like Apple & Tesla.Trump’s incoming administration adds to the tech war stakes.Wedbush analysts suggest a compromise might involve partial control.
🌐 Global market opportunities
Merchants shift focus beyond the US to stay competitive.Xiaohongshu, valued at $17B, is rising as a TikTok alternative.With 300M active users, it hit No. 1 in the US App Store.Investors include Tencent and Alibaba, pushing its global expansion.Despite potential scrutiny, Xiaohongshu offers promise for creators.China's e-commerce scene is adapting to geopolitical challenges.
Will TikTok sellers thrive on new platforms?
