TikTok Shop recently released the "Compliance Guidelines for Cross-border Merchants' Short Video Content," which sets clear standards for short video content creation.

The most notable aspect of the new regulations is the strict prohibition of merchants or influencers using high-risk content manipulation techniques such as segmented layering and AB frame technology.

The release of this new policy marks that TikTok Shop is further strengthening its governance of short video content, promoting the content ecosystem from rough growth to regulated development.

For cross-border merchants, this is not only a compliance challenge, but also an important opportunity for a transformation in content creation thinking.

 

Image source:Google

Core of the New Regulations: Strictly Prohibit Segmented Layering and AB Frame Technology

According to the "Compliance Guidelines for Cross-border Merchants' Short Video Content" released by TikTok Shop, the platform requires all short videos to use the original video format to ensure the continuity and integrity of the content. Merchants should naturally improve content conversion efficiency through clear audiovisual effects, highlighting product selling points, and multi-angle displays.

The new regulations explicitly prohibit two types of behavior. First, it strictly forbids the creation of "segmented layering" videos, that is, do not insert segments unrelated to the product or splice together chaotic footage to confuse the review system; second, it strictly prohibits the use of "AB frame" technology, including but not limited to altering the video aspect ratio, adding overlays or covers to hide non-compliant content. These techniques are often used to circumvent platform reviews of false advertising, exaggerated efficacy, or off-platform traffic diversion violations.

The platform emphasizes that once violations are identified, penalties will be imposed depending on the severity, which may include video removal, deduction of influencer account health points, restriction of traffic recommendations, and even permanent closure of e-commerce permissions.

 

Image source:Google

Impact on Sellers: Higher Threshold for Content Creation

For the majority of cross-border sellers, this new regulation means that some commonly used "black technology" editing techniques are no longer feasible. Many sellers previously relied on segmented editing or AB frame technology to quickly produce eye-catching videos, and some even tried to hide non-compliant content through these methods to bypass platform review.

After the implementation of the new regulations, such operations will become extremely risky. Once identified by the system, not only will individual videos be removed, but account weight may also be affected, leading to restricted traffic for subsequent content, and even loss of live streaming or short video selling permissions. Therefore, sellers must re-evaluate their content creation processes to avoid triggering penalties in pursuit of short-term results.

In addition, the new regulations also remind sellers to pay more attention to originality and content quality. The previous practice of quickly generating videos by splicing and mixing low-quality materials is no longer sustainable. High-quality, original content with effective product display will become the new focus of competition.

 

Image source:Google

Seller Response Strategies: Return to Content Essence, Strengthen Compliance Awareness

In the context of increasingly strict platform governance, sellers urgently need to adjust their content strategies to adapt to the new regulatory environment. The primary task is to strengthen the team's understanding of policies, ensuring that operations and creative staff clearly understand what content constitutes a violation, and avoid inadvertently crossing the red line.

Secondly, it is necessary to quickly shift to a creation approach centered on authentic product display and user value. More use can be made of real-shot videos, product trial processes, and scenario-based demonstrations to highlight product selling points while ensuring the coherence and authenticity of video content. This not only meets platform requirements, but also more easily builds user trust and improves long-term conversion effects.

In addition, it is recommended that sellers pay attention to quality control in influencer collaborations. When selecting partners, priority should be given to creators with originality and content styles that match the brand's tone, to avoid store reputation being implicated by influencer violations.

 

Image source:Google

Conclusion

The new short video content regulations released by TikTok Shop are not only a cleanup of violations, but also an encouragement for quality content creators.

As the platform gradually improves its rules, a healthier, more transparent, and more efficient e-commerce ecosystem is taking shape. Only merchants who keep up with changes and proactively comply can truly seize the huge opportunities of TikTok social e-commerce.