DTI taps TikTok shop to empower MSMEs

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with TikTok Shop to help micro-small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) capitalize on the power of e-commerce and live streaming to promote their businesses online.

DTI and TikTok Shop recently hosted “Camp Asenso”, a two-day event aimed at empowering MSMEs to make a strong presence online.

The program featured comprehensive master classes on starting on TikTok Shop, including content guidelines, affiliate marketing, and live selling demonstrations, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge to help MSMEs thrive in the digital age.

“The new partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry and TikTok Shop marks a significant milestone, promising to open up better opportunities for our MSMEs,” said DTI Undersecretary Cristina Roque.

According to Roque, through collaboration, “we will dive into the dynamic world of TikTok and explore how powerful platforms can elevate our businesses.”

Roque underscored the importance of digitalization and the insights and skills participants gained in the program will not only enhance their businesses but also pave the way for sustained growth and success.

The two-day program, which was attended by nearly 400 TikTok Shop sellers, also included showcases by Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon and Tiny Buds, where participants learned firsthand how these businesses utilized TikTok Shop to scale their operations and reach a wider audience.

Josemartin Casillano of Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon highlighted the role of storytelling in engaging customers, detailing how the business leveraged TikTok’s platform to share its unique story and mission. By focusing on authentic content that showcased their journey from humble beginnings, the brand connected deeply with its audience, boosting visibility and fostering a loyal customer base resonating with its values and products.

“Our journey with TikTok Shop has allowed us to narrate our story—from our humble beginnings to our current success,” Casillano explained.

“By highlighting our collaboration with local farmers and leveraging TikTok Shop’s unique features, we’ve transformed into a nationwide brand, reaching thousands of customers,” Casillano added.

Lorin Tan of Tiny Buds shared her brand’s story and practical tips for leveraging TikTok Shop, navigating the dynamic digital landscape by staying ahead of trends and continuously engaging with the audience. 

Tan underscored the importance of adaptability and innovation, enabling the brand to maintain a strong customer connection and sustain growth.

“TikTok Shop has allowed us to build meaningful connections with our customers and continuously adapt to new trends. It’s essential to step out of our comfort zones, invest in time, space, and people, and keep learning to thrive in this dynamic environment,” Tan advised.

“At TikTok Shop, we believe in the power of e-commerce and live streaming to transform businesses of all sizes, especially SMEs. Our mission is to provide entrepreneurs with the tools and platforms needed to expand reach and grow in this digital age. We are committed to supporting Filipino MSMEs every step of the way by ensuring access to resources and opportunities to thrive. We will continue to roll out initiatives designed to help our MSMEs succeed, through initiatives such as educational programs, enhanced seller support and campaigns,” Niks Fojas, Category Lead for F&B at TikTok Shop, affirmed.

TikTok Shop’s efforts to support MSMEs are reflected in initiatives like the “Buy Local, Shop Local” campaign, aimed at promoting local businesses and enhancing the e-commerce landscape.

The partnership with the DTI further enhances this commitment to advance digital growth and success for MSMEs nationwide.