TikTok and Douyin are two popular short-form video-sharing apps that have taken the world by storm. TikTok is widely used outside of China, while Douyin is mainly used within China. However, the two apps are very similar in terms of their features and user interface. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the similarities and differences between TikTok and Douyin.

Ownership and Availability

The most significant difference between TikTok and Douyin is their ownership and availability. TikTok is owned by ByteDance, a Chinese tech company, but it is available worldwide. Douyin, on the other hand, is only available within China and is also owned by ByteDance. This means that the content and user base of the two apps are different.

Features

Both TikTok and Douyin allow users to create and share short-form videos, typically up to 60 seconds long. The two apps have a similar user interface and offer similar features, such as filters, special effects, and music. However, Douyin has some features that are unique to the Chinese market, such as an e-commerce integration that allows users to purchase products directly from the app.

Content

The content on TikTok and Douyin is also different due to their availability in different regions. TikTok's content is more diverse and global, while Douyin's content is mainly targeted towards a Chinese audience. The two apps also have different rules and regulations regarding content moderation. Douyin, for example, is subject to Chinese censorship laws, which means that some content that is allowed on TikTok may not be allowed on Douyin.

Marketing on Douyin

For overseas brands looking to market in China, Douyin is an attractive platform due to its large user base and popularity in the Chinese market. However, marketing on Douyin can be challenging due to the differences in culture, language, and user behavior. Brands must be sensitive to these differences and adapt their marketing strategies accordingly. For example, they may need to work with local influencers or create content that is specific to the Chinese market.

In conclusion, while TikTok and Douyin are very similar in terms of their features and user interface, their ownership, availability, and content differ significantly. For overseas brands looking to market in China, Douyin is an attractive platform due to its large user base, but marketing on the platform requires an understanding of the Chinese market and culture.

5 Tips for Overseas Brands to Successfully Market on Douyin 

Marketing on Douyin can be a great way for overseas brands to reach the Chinese market, but it can also be challenging due to differences in culture, language, and user behavior. Here are some tips for overseas brands looking to market on Douyin:

Understand the Chinese Market

Before launching a marketing campaign on Douyin, it's essential to have a good understanding of the Chinese market. This includes understanding Chinese consumer behavior, preferences, and cultural norms. By understanding the Chinese market, overseas brands can tailor their marketing campaigns to appeal to the local audience.

Work with Local Influencers

Influencer marketing is a popular and effective way to reach Chinese consumers on Douyin. However, it's essential to work with local influencers who have a significant following on the platform and can speak the language fluently. Local influencers can help overseas brands reach a wider audience and can provide valuable insights into the preferences and behavior of Chinese consumers.

Create Engaging Content

On Douyin, content is king. Creating engaging, high-quality content is crucial for a successful marketing campaign on the platform. Overseas brands should consider creating content that is specific to the Chinese market and is tailored to the preferences of Chinese consumers. This can include creating videos that showcase the brand's products or services, or videos that highlight the brand's values and mission.

Leverage Douyin's Advertising Tools

Douyin offers a range of advertising tools that overseas brands can use to reach a wider audience. These include in-feed ads, branded challenges, and branded filters. Overseas brands should consider using these tools to create a targeted marketing campaign that is specific to the Chinese market.

Work with Local Agencies

Finally, working with a local agency can be a great way for overseas brands to navigate the complexities of marketing on Douyin. Local agencies have a good understanding of the Chinese market and can provide valuable insights into the preferences and behavior of Chinese consumers. They can also help overseas brands create content that is specific to the Chinese market and can manage the logistics of a marketing campaign on Douyin.