TikTok has released new data illustrating the steps it’s taking to protect intellectual property (IP) and consumer safety within its growing in-app shopping ecosystem. The update comes as the platform ramps up its e-commerce ambitions while navigating regulatory and geopolitical challenges, particularly in the U.S.
According to TikTok, nearly $1 billion has been invested in tools, staffing, and technology to support its TikTok Shop infrastructure. A significant portion of this funding has gone toward enhancing intellectual property enforcement, with the company now employing 1,800 staff members specifically tasked with monitoring IP-related issues.
Between July and December 2024, TikTok reported rejecting over 7.5 million product listings before they went live due to IP violations. Additionally, more than 750,000 items were removed after being flagged for infringing content. The platform also intervened to stop more than 125,000 livestreams and over 550,000 short-form videos over similar concerns. During this period, over 16,000 creators lost selling privileges due to repeated infractions.
Beyond IP, TikTok says it removed 90,000 listings for prohibited or restricted items and deactivated 900 stores that violated its policies. These figures reflect a broader effort to align TikTok Shop operations with regional legal frameworks and consumer safety standards.
While the company continues expanding its shopping features into markets like Mexico, South America, Europe, and Asia, ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China present a hurdle. The U.S. has been TikTok’s most active market for in-app commerce, but escalating tariffs may hinder future growth, forcing the platform to pivot its focus to other regions to sustain momentum.
