In the wave of globalization, cross-border e-commerce has become an important bridge connecting the world. As the "Black Friday" shopping carnival approaches, on October 10th, the official TikTok Shop platform announced a major initiative:Comprehensively lowering the entry threshold for self-operated cross-border merchants in the US region.

This change is undoubtedly a shot in the arm for the cross-border e-commerce sector, bringing new opportunities for both merchants and consumers. Let's take a look at the specific adjustments.

I. Lower Thresholds, Stimulating Merchant Vitality

The lowered threshold of TikTok Shop means that more merchants will have the opportunity to join this e-commerce platform. For those who have always wanted to showcase their brands and products in the international market, this is a rare opportunity. The lowered threshold not only includes adjustments to store rating requirements, but also relaxes requirements for transaction volume and operating duration, providing more room for growth for new entrants.

Image source: TikTok Shop Cross-border E-commerce Official Account

II. More Flexible Entry Standards

The new entry standards are more flexible and inclusive, including adjustments for already supported platform sellers and the addition of new supported platforms:

1. Adjustments for already supported platform sellers:The Amazon store rating requirement has been adjusted from 4.0 to 3.5. This change means more merchants have the opportunity to join TikTok Shop and share its massive user base and traffic.

At the same time, the 500,000 transaction volume requirement for Walmart, Wayfair, and eBay has been removed, as well as the fan requirement for DTC independent sites. These adjustments lower the entry threshold for merchants, allowing more small and medium-sized businesses to showcase their products on TikTok Shop.

2,Newly Supported Platforms:Three new types of merchants have been added: Temu semi-managed, SHEIN semi-managed, and AliExpress self-operated, bringing the number of domestic and international e-commerce platforms supported by TikTok Shop to nine, covering almost all major platforms.

III. Simplified Entry Process, Improved Efficiency

With the lowered entry threshold, TikTok Shop has also optimized the entry process, making the entire procedure simpler and more efficient. Merchants can complete their onboarding faster and start their sales activities sooner.

This improvement in efficiency not only saves merchants valuable time but also brings consumers faster product updates and service experiences.

IV. Diverse Product Categories to Meet Varied Needs

With more merchants joining, the variety of products on TikTok Shop will become even richer. From daily consumer goods to unique handicrafts, from tech products to fashionable apparel, consumers can find almost everything they need on TikTok Shop.

This diversity of product categories not only meets the varied needs of consumers but also provides merchants with more sales opportunities.

V. Improved Business Environment, Preparing for Black Friday

While activating the platform's business vitality, TikTok Shop is also continuously improving the business environment to fully prepare for the upcoming "Black Friday" sales event. Since its launch in the US region in September 2023, TikTok Shop has celebrated its first anniversary, with content-based GMV growing rapidly by 557% and a thriving merchant ecosystem.

The lowered threshold for TikTok Shop in the US region is not only a major boon for the cross-border e-commerce sector but also a positive push for the global e-commerce ecosystem. As the "Black Friday" sales event approaches, we have reason to believe that TikTok Shop will become a new focal point for global consumers and merchants.

For merchants, now is the best time to seize opportunities and achieve brand internationalization and sales growth. For consumers, they will enjoy a richer and more diverse shopping experience.