DTI and TikTok Shop Forge Alliance to Boost E-Commerce Compliance in the Philippines
In a significant move to regulate the booming digital marketplace, the Department of Trade and Industry's E-Commerce Bureau (DTI ECB) has entered into a strategic partnership with TikTok Shop. This collaboration aims to educate online sellers about their legal responsibilities under Republic Act No. 11967, also known as the Internet Transactions Act of 2023. As social media platforms like TikTok evolve from mere entertainment hubs into bustling e-commerce centers, this initiative seeks to foster a more transparent and law-abiding online trading environment.
Enhancing Seller Awareness Through Collaborative Efforts
Under a recently signed memorandum of understanding, DTI ECB and TikTok Shop will jointly develop awareness and capacity-building programs. These initiatives include webinar sessions, short educational videos, and comprehensive learning modules designed to guide sellers through their obligations in internet transactions. The partnership officially launched with a webinar streamed on January 28, which attracted over 179,000 views and introduced DTI ECB's mandate and key programs supporting the implementation of RA 11967.
DTI ECB Director Atty. Eryl Royce Nagtalon emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "Working with private e-commerce stakeholders like TikTok Shop is crucial for the government to continuously improve the skills and services of online sellers. This includes raising their awareness of obligations and liabilities under the Internet Transactions Act and other regulatory requirements."
Building a Resilient E-Commerce Ecosystem
Yves Gonzalez, TikTok Shop's Head of Public Policy, highlighted the shared vision, noting, "This partnership strengthens our common goal of creating a more robust e-commerce sector by prioritizing the ongoing development of our sellers. Both TikTok Shop and DTI ECB recognize that continuous learning leads to positive changes, ultimately contributing to a vibrant and future-proof digital marketplace."
With emerging technologies and evolving e-commerce policies, this alliance aims to advance a resilient and future-ready digital environment. By providing orientations and trainings focused on enhancing skills and promoting responsible business practices, the partnership creates strategic growth opportunities for online sellers across the Philippines.
Accessing DTI ECB Resources
For more information on DTI ECB programs and projects, interested stakeholders can contact the Bureau via email at ecommerce@dti.gov.ph or by telephone at (+632) 7791.3282. This partnership marks a proactive step towards ensuring that the rapid growth of e-commerce in the country is accompanied by increased compliance and ethical standards.
