Douyin is the Chinese version of TikTok. People post short videos that are displayed on users' pages in a continuous list that is scrolled through. These platforms have become a place of promotion for brands as eCommerce grows.
These applications are used mostly by the ages of ’40s and under. The largest group would be young adults.
The male and female statistic is almost 50 50 so targeting both genders
is not a problem.
If your target audience is part of the young demographic, these applications are the easiest way to reach them.
There are no main differences between the two platforms as Douyin is the mother of TikTok. Content placed on Douyin will not be placed on TikTok and vice versa.
TikTok
Search Feature
Aimed at users around the globe
Cannot be downloaded in China
Used more for entertainment
Douyin
Scan and search feature.
Users can scan any item on-screen and a pop up will allow the user to purchase immediately
Aimed at Chinese demographic
Used more for informational purposes Mini Programs
Advertisements must be engaging, up to date with trends, and sharing a product that is different than the rest.
Main ways to advertise on TikTok as well as Douyin
Video Feeds
Up to 60 seconds (if the account is verified) and an internal link can be implemented. These appear in a user’s feed while using the platform.
Splash ad/Brand takeover
A 3-5 seconds advertisement that is played once the platform has started. These ads are launched at a maximum of 4 a day.
Sticker Ads
Brands can make customised stickers to promote a product or their company. Users can add these stickers to their video clips and create funny and engaging content.
This is mainly used in Douyin.
Branded Hashtag
Partnering with TikTok/Douyin to make a Branded Hashtag Challenge for users to duet and share your brand. Although this can be done by using the right
influencer.
Influencer Marketing
Having an existing, well known, influencer to promote your brand by using your products. The easiest way to get to your target audience.
Using influencers to promote your brand is the best option. Make sure your target audience fits well with the interests of the influencer and their following.
Influencers can start a hashtag challenge themselves that have known to become the next trend. TikTok can do this for you but with an unnecessary expense.
This type of marketing has been most effective for industries, as they are more likely to be engaged by the viewer.
What can’t be advertised
Cigarettes and Tobacco products
Drug-related products and services
Weapons
Gambling
Sexual products and services
Political ad
Counterfeit goods
Products and services that enable dishonest behaviour
Animals
Every country has its own restrictions, but these are the main points that every brand needs to follow.
Video feed advertisements are frequent enough to grab someone’s attention. A swipe right will automatically bring the user to the product available for purchase. This feature is also on Douyin.
Items can be purchased directly on the application and users will not be brought to a secondary location.
Companies can insert a link to their website on their account page and users, again, will not be brought to another application.
Verify TikTok account
Start a TikTok Ads Manager account and access Account Setup.
Business Verification ID Number
Business Name
Name of Legal Representative
Verify Douyin Account
Create a Douyin account
Provide the following documents
Type of account (company or individual) CategoryRegion of registration (supports oversea companies)
Region of operation
Presence of offline stores
Business license
Operator name
Operator phone number
Operator email
The review process will begin when the required information has been entered and generally takes 5 days.
The audience that you are targeting determines which application you should use for advertising.
If you are targeting the Chinese market, use Douyin. Anywhere else use TikTok.
Keep in mind that the Chinese market is more likely to purchase on Douyin than the other users on TikTok.
If you want to know more, please feel free to contact us and one of our team members will be more than happy to assist you.